Super Typhoon Fung-wong Forces Evacuations of Nearly One Million in Philippines

As Super Typhoon Fung-wong approaches the Philippines, authorities have evacuated nearly one million residents from high-risk areas. The storm is expected to make landfall late on Sunday or early Monday, bringing winds exceeding 185 kilometres per hour and posing significant threats to the archipelago, which consists of over 7,600 islands.

Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has urged residents in vulnerable regions to evacuate promptly. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, especially as the country is still recovering from the devastating effects of Typhoon Kalmaegi, which recently claimed at least 224 lives in the central provinces. The forecast indicates that Fung-wong could affect up to 30 million people across the nation.

The storm, referred to as ‘Uwan’ in local terminology, is the most severe weather threat to the Philippines this year. It has already begun impacting the northeastern coast, particularly the town of Pandan in Catanduanes Province. Local forecasters reported that the typhoon’s wide rain and wind span, measuring approximately 1,600 kilometers, will cover a significant portion of the country.

Teodoro cautioned that the storm’s anticipated path could severely impact areas such as Cebu and metropolitan Manila, which are densely populated and host critical government and financial institutions. In a televised address, he stated, “We need to do this because when it’s already raining or the typhoon has hit and flooding has started, it’s hard to rescue people,” highlighting the risks posed by flash floods, landslides, and coastal surges.

With schools and government offices in northern provinces preemptively closed for Monday and Tuesday, the impact of Fung-wong is already being felt. Over 325 domestic and 61 international flights have been cancelled, stranding more than 6,600 commuters and cargo workers at various seaports. The Philippine Coast Guard has prohibited vessels from setting sail due to the hazardous sea conditions.

The Philippines experiences approximately 20 typhoons annually, making it one of the most disaster-prone nations globally. As the effects of climate change continue to escalate, the country is grappling with increased frequency and severity of natural disasters. Although no international assistance has been formally requested following Typhoon Kalmaegi, Teodoro noted that both the United States and Japan stand ready to provide aid if necessary.

As the nation braces for the impact of Super Typhoon Fung-wong, local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging all residents in affected areas to prioritize their safety and adhere to evacuation orders.