Nearly one million evacuated in the Philippines as super Typhoon Fung-wong approaches

Sunday 09 November 2025 - 08:00

By: Sahili Aya

Nearly one million evacuated in the Philippines as super Typhoon Fung-wong approaches

Nearly one million people have been evacuated across the Philippines ahead of the arrival of Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which is bringing fierce winds and torrential rain to several regions of the country, authorities announced on Sunday.

The storm, which has intensified into a “super typhoon,” is moving westward with sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts reaching up to 230 km/h. Meteorologists warn that Fung-wong, nearly covering the entire archipelago in diameter, is expected to make landfall overnight.

Residents of Catanduanes Island reported violent waves and powerful gusts early Sunday. “The waves started roaring around 7 a.m. When they hit the seawall, the ground seemed to shake,” said Edson Casarino, a local resident. “Heavy rain is falling, and the wind is howling,” he added.

Authorities have issued warnings of severe flooding, with rainfall expected to exceed 200 millimeters in some areas, potentially overflowing major river basins. Local communities spent the weekend reinforcing homes and securing belongings.

The arrival of Fung-wong comes just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which left more than 200 dead and over 100 missing. Rescue operations in the central province of Cebu — one of the hardest-hit areas — have been temporarily suspended due to the approaching storm.

The Philippines faces around 20 typhoons each year, many of which cause severe damage in poorer regions. Scientists continue to warn that human-driven climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events across Southeast Asia.