Philippines Braces for Second Typhoon as Fung-wong Approaches following Kalmaegi‘s Deadly Impact
MANILA – The Philippines is preparing for the arrival of typhoon Fung-wong, just days after being battered by Typhoon Kalmaegi, one of the strongest storms of the year. Residents in coastal and low-lying areas, including those in the Anduanes islands off southern Luzon, have been urged to evacuate to higher ground. Civil defense officials have mandated evacuations be completed by Sunday morning, warning against attempting them during heavy rain and strong winds.
The approaching storm has already forced the suspension of rescue operations following kalmaegi, which unleashed torrential rainfall causing mudslides and flash floods that devastated some of the country’s poorest neighborhoods. At least 204 people in the philippines are confirmed dead as an inevitable result of Kalmaegi, with over 100 still missing. Five fatalities were also reported in vietnam,where the storm uprooted trees,tore off roofs,and shattered windows.
in response to the dual threat,the philippines goverment has declared a state of calamity nationwide,granting agencies increased authority to access emergency funds and expedite the delivery of essential supplies.
“we decided to evacuate because the recent typhoon brought floods in our area, and now I just want to keep my family safe,” said Norlito dugan, who is sheltering in a church in Sorsogon City, Luzon. Maxine Dugan, a coastal resident, added, “I’m here because the waves near my house are now huge… The winds there are now very strong, and the waves are huge.”
The Philippines is highly vulnerable to tropical cyclones, experiencing approximately 20 each year, half of which make direct landfall. While climate change is not expected to increase the number of thes storms, warmer ocean temperatures and a warmer atmosphere have the potential to intensify them, leading to stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and increased coastal flooding risk.
