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The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and displaced over a million residents.

Authorities stated that the powerful weather system triggered widespread sudden floods, storm surges, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the evacuation of millions of people across the country.

Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations

In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams documented rising waters reaching the tops of houses and residences being swept away by strong flows.

“Our personnel rescued fourteen people who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. “A father also called in panic, reporting the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”

As of Monday morning, authorities announced at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.

Typhoon Strength and Projected Path

The intense storm was downgraded to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, where the capital is located.

Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.

The cyclone is expected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.

Response and Recovery

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

Roughly thousands of shelters were activated to temporarily house 92,000 families.

Previous Storms and Climate Impact

Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.

Searches for those still missing were halted on Sunday over risks to emergency personnel.

The climate crisis is causing tropical storms stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.

Researchers have found that the frequency of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.

International estimates suggest that severe weather events cause approximately millions in dollars in damage to the country annually.

The nation’s leader issued an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the extensive devastation caused by the prior typhoon and anticipated impacts from the new storm.