A powerful super typhoon has struck the Philippines, bringing destructive winds and heavy rain to wide areas of the country. Officials have warned of “life-threatening conditions” as the storm pushes across the nation’s largest island.
Bicol Region Feels the First Wave of Destruction
Typhoon Fung Wong, with sustained winds of 185 km/h, is pounding multiple provinces, according to the national weather service Pagasa. The eastern Bicol region was first to experience its force on Sunday morning. Luzon, home to millions, is expected to be hit hardest by nightfall.
Locally known as Uwan, the storm follows only days after Typhoon Kalmaegi devastated communities, killing nearly 200 people. Schools have been closed or moved online, while Philippine Airlines suspended domestic flights in anticipation of the storm.
Pagasa predicts that Fung Wong will weaken slightly after landfall but remain a typhoon as it crosses Luzon. Eastern regions have already endured intense winds and torrential rain since late Saturday.
Coastal Towns Evacuate as Floodwaters Rise
Authorities have ordered thousands of residents in low-lying and coastal areas to evacuate. On Catanduanes Island in the Bicol region, emergency services reported severe conditions early Sunday.
In Aurora province, 21-year-old hotel worker Hagunoy said police made repeated checks to ensure all hotels near the coast were cleared. By Sunday morning, the usually crowded beachfronts were deserted as residents prepared for landfall expected around midnight.
The tide rose sharply throughout the day. Hagunoy said he would stay to guard the property before leaving on his motorbike once it became too dangerous. Staff tied windows shut with rope and reinforced gates to protect against shattering glass.
Rescue Efforts Halted After Kalmaegi’s Deadly Impact
Fung Wong’s arrival has forced authorities to pause ongoing rescue missions launched after Typhoon Kalmaegi, one of the year’s strongest storms. Torrential rain caused landslides and flash floods that destroyed entire neighborhoods.
At least 204 people have been confirmed dead, with more than 100 still missing. In Vietnam, five others were killed as the storm uprooted trees, ripped off roofs, and shattered windows.
Nation Declares State of Calamity Ahead of Storm’s Peak
The Philippine government declared a nationwide state of calamity following the devastation caused by Kalmaegi and in preparation for Fung Wong’s full impact. The declaration speeds up access to emergency funds and the delivery of aid to those in need.
Many residents remain fearful after recent floods. “We decided to evacuate because the last typhoon destroyed our house. I just want my family safe,” said Norlito Dugan, sheltering in a church in Sorsogon, Luzon.
Another evacuee, Maxine Dugan, said: “The waves near my home are massive. I live close to the sea. The winds are strong, and the water keeps rising.”
Rising Temperatures Drive Stronger and Wetter Typhoons
The Philippines sits directly on the Pacific typhoon belt, making it one of the most disaster-prone nations in the world. Around 20 tropical cyclones form in the region each year, and about half strike the country.
Experts say climate change may not increase the number of storms but will make them more intense. Warmer oceans and hotter air create stronger typhoons, bringing faster winds, heavier rainfall, and greater risks of coastal flooding.
