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The Philippines was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and displaced over a million residents.

Authorities reported that the massive storm triggered extensive sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of millions of people nationwide.

Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts

In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and residences being swept away by strong flows.

“Our personnel saved 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We saved him along with four family members.”

As of Monday morning, officials announced two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and a second individual killed after her home gave way on Samar island.

Typhoon Strength and Projected Path

The super typhoon was downgraded to a typhoon early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.

According to the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.

The cyclone is projected to continue weakening as it moves north toward Taiwan.

Response and Recovery

The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.

Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.

Previous Storms and Climate Impact

The typhoon hit just days after another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people with another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.

Searches for the missing persons were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.

The climate crisis is causing tropical storms stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.

Scientists report that the rate of super-typhoons striking the islands has risen by more than 100% in the past twenty years.

Global assessments suggest that intense storms cause approximately millions in dollars in damage for the Philippines annually.

The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.