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

Authorities reported that the massive storm caused widespread flash flooding, coastal inundation, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of residents across the country.

Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations

In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented floodwaters climbing to the tops of houses and residences being swept away by strong flows.

Our team saved fourteen people stranded atop a house surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We rescued him and four relatives.”

As of Monday morning, authorities 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.

Typhoon Strength and Projected Path

The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday as it crossed the main island, where the capital is located.

According to the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.

The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.

Relief and Assessment

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

Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.

Recent Context and Climate Impact

The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people with another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, where it killed five.

Searches for those still missing were halted recently due to safety concerns for rescue workers.

Global warming is making tropical storms more intense and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.

Scientists report that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.

International estimates suggest that severe weather events result in approximately millions in dollars in losses for the Philippines every year.

The Philippine president issued a state of emergency on Thursday because of the extensive devastation caused by the prior typhoon and the expected damage from the new storm.