Super Typhoon Fung Wong Batters Philippines; ‘Life-Threatening’ Conditions

A powerful storm has struck the Philippines, with Typhoon Fung Wong, known locally as Uwan officially upgraded to super typhoon status, according to BBC News. The storm has brought destructive winds of up to 185 km/h (155 mph) and torrential rain to large parts of the country.

The Bicol region was the first to be hit on Sunday morning, while the country’s largest island, Luzon, is expected to face the full impact by nightfall. The eastern provinces like Catanduanes were already experiencing severe flooding, strong winds, and rising sea levels.

In response, schools have cancelled classes, Philippine Airlines has grounded several domestic flights, and local authorities have urged residents in low-lying and coastal areas to move to safer ground. Police and rescue teams have been deployed across eastern Luzon to assist with evacuations.

The government has declared a state of calamity, granting agencies more power to distribute emergency relief. The country is still reeling from Typhoon Kalmaegi, which left over 200 people dead and dozens missing earlier this week.

BBC noted that while Typhoon Fung Wong is expected to weaken after landfall, it will likely remain strong enough to cause significant damage as it crosses Luzon.

The Philippines experiences around 20 tropical cyclones every year, and experts warn that climate change is intensifying storms like Fung Wong bringing stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and greater flooding risks.