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The island nation has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.

Officials reported that the powerful weather system caused widespread flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million people across the country.

Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts

In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded rising waters climbing to the tops of houses and residences washed out by the powerful currents.

“Our personnel saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”

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

Storm Intensity and Forecast

The super typhoon was downgraded to a typhoon early Monday while moving over the main island, home to the national capital.

Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.

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

Response and Recovery

The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.

Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to accommodate 92,000 families.

Previous Storms and Environmental Factors

The typhoon hit just days after another severe storm, that claimed hundreds of lives and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.

Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday over risks to emergency personnel.

Global warming is causing tropical storms stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.

Researchers have found that the frequency of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased doubled over the last two decades.

International estimates suggest that intense storms cause an average of US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines annually.

The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration last week because of the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.