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The Philippines has been hit hard by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.

Authorities stated that the massive storm triggered widespread flash flooding, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of millions of residents across the country.

Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts

In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and residences washed out by the powerful currents.

Our team saved fourteen people stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We rescued him along with four family members.”

By Monday, officials confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and a second individual killed when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.

Storm Intensity and Forecast

The super typhoon weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.

Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts peaked at more than 275 km/h.

The cyclone is projected to lose strength as it moves north toward Taiwan.

Response and Recovery

The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.

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

Previous Storms and Climate Impact

Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people with another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.

Search operations for those still missing were halted on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.

Global warming is making tropical storms more intense and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.

Scientists have found that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen doubled over the last two decades.

International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in approximately millions in dollars in losses to the country annually.

The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration last week because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.