Super Typhoon Fung-wong hit the northeastern coast of the Philippines on Sunday. The powerful storm has already caused at least two deaths and forced over a million people to evacuate from areas at risk of floods and landslides.
Fung-wong made landfall in Dinalungan, Aurora province, bringing winds of up to 185 kph (115 mph) and gusts reaching 230 kph (143 mph). This storm is one of the most intense to strike the Philippines in years. It has an enormous reach, affecting nearly two-thirds of the archipelago.
Tragically, two confirmed fatalities have been reported: a villager drowned in Catanduanes, and another person was killed by flying debris in Catbalogan city, Eastern Samar.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of emergency due to the destruction from this and the recent Typhoon Kalmaegi, which had already claimed over 200 lives earlier in the week. This ongoing series of storms highlights the growing concern around severe weather events in the region.
Roberto Monterola, a disaster-mitigation officer, described the harrowing conditions during the storm. He reported, “The rain and wind were so strong there was nearly zero visibility.” Some residents chose to stay in their homes despite evacuation orders. Rescuers have saved people trapped on roofs amid the rising waters.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. emphasized the storm’s serious potential impact. He warned that Fung-wong could affect over 30 million people, with risks of flash floods, landslides, and storm surges. Many communities along the coast were advised to seek shelter away from vulnerable areas.
As Fung-wong approached, power outages occurred in several towns. Schools and government offices were shut down in anticipation of the storm. Travel plans were also disrupted, with numerous flights canceled and over 6,600 people stranded at sea ports.
The Philippines is no stranger to natural disasters, facing an average of 20 typhoons each year along with frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. According to a recent report from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the severity of these storms appears to be increasing due to climate change.
This pattern has raised alarms among experts. Dr. Maria Antonia Araullo, a climate researcher, noted, “The Philippines is on the front lines of climate impacts, making disaster preparedness and response essential.” The growing urban population in flood-prone areas intensifies the stakes for disaster management.
As authorities prepare for the ongoing crisis, the community faces not just immediate challenges but the long-term realities of living in one of the world’s most disaster-prone regions.
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