Super Typhoon Slams Philippines, Nearly A Million Flee Homes

Super Typhoon Slams Philippines, Nearly A Million Flee Homes

 

 

Super Typhoon Fung-wong — locally known as Uwan — tore into the Philippines late Sunday, forcing the evacuation of more than 900,000 people and killing at least two as the country reels from back-to-back storms.

 

Packing sustained winds of 185 km/h (115 mph) and gusts up to 230 km/h (143 mph), the storm made landfall in Aurora province on Luzon before weakening slightly as it churned westward. Officials warned of “life-threatening” storm surges, landslides, and catastrophic flooding as more than 200mm of rain was forecast for parts of Luzon, including Metro Manila.

 

The latest typhoon arrives just days after Storm Kalmaegi devastated central Philippines, leaving 204 people dead and over 100 missing, prompting the government to declare a state of calamity nationwide.

 

In the town of Sabang, police ordered tourists out of coastal hotels while locals secured windows with rope and sought shelter inland. “We felt very worried because of the strength of the typhoon, and we have young children to think of,” said evacuee Jessa Zurbano.

 

 

Airports have been closed, nearly 300 flights cancelled, and ferry services halted across much of the archipelago. Civil defence officials confirmed at least two fatalities — one from drowning, another trapped under debris — as rescue operations were suspended due to the weather.

 

The Philippines is one of the world’s most cyclone-prone countries, with around 20 tropical storms hitting each year. Scientists warn that warming oceans are likely making such storms more powerful and wetter, increasing the human and economic toll.

 

Key Takeaways

• Super Typhoon Fung-wong hits Luzon with 185 km/h winds, 900,000 evacuated.

• Comes days after Kalmaegi killed over 200 people, prompting state of calamity.

• Experts warn warming oceans are intensifying storms battering the Philippines.

 

[Source: BBC]