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The Philippines has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.

Officials reported that the massive storm triggered widespread sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of millions of people across the country.

Extensive Destruction and Emergency Operations

In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters reaching rooftop levels and residences washed out by the powerful currents.

Our team saved 14 individuals stranded atop a house engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, reporting the roof of his house was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We saved him and four relatives.”

By Monday, authorities announced at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.

Storm Intensity and Projected Path

The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the main island, home to the national capital.

According to meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.

The storm system is expected 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.

Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to temporarily house 92,000 families.

Previous Storms and Climate Impact

The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, that claimed hundreds of lives with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to Vietnam, where it killed five.

Search operations for the missing persons were halted on Sunday over risks to emergency personnel.

Global warming is causing cyclones more intense and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.

Scientists have found that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.

Global assessments suggest that intense storms cause approximately millions in dollars in damage to the country every year.

The Philippine president declared a state of emergency last week due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.