More than 1 million people have been evacuated in the Philippines as Super Typhoon Fung-wong made landfall on the east coast, bringing with it devastating winds and heavy rainfall. The storm, which struck on Sunday, is the second major typhoon to hit the country within a week, following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which resulted in significant loss of life and damage.

Evacuations and Damage
The Philippine government reported that over 1.2 million individuals were preemptively evacuated due to the impending danger posed by Fung-wong. The storm made landfall in Dinalungan town, Aurora province, with sustained winds of 115 mph and gusts reaching up to 140 mph. Preliminary reports indicated at least two fatalities before the storm's landfall, with one victim drowning in Catanduanes and another woman trapped under debris in Catbalogan City. Rescue efforts have been complicated by the severe weather conditions.

Impact on Infrastructure
In preparation for the storm, schools and government offices across Luzon, including the capital city of Manila, were ordered to close. The storm has already caused the cancellation of nearly 300 flights, disrupting travel plans for thousands. Local residents expressed their fears about the storm's timing, as landfall occurred during the night, making it difficult to assess the situation visually and respond effectively.

Historical Context
This year marks the 21st significant storm to impact the Philippines, highlighting the increasing frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones in the region. Meteorologists predict that Fung-wong could bring over 200 mm of rain to various areas, exacerbating the risks of flooding and landslides. Experts attribute the growing strength of these storms to climate change, which has resulted in warmer ocean temperatures and increased moisture in the atmosphere.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts
The Philippine civil defense office has been mobilizing resources to assist affected communities. Rafaelito Alejandro, a deputy administrator, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the country's disaster response capabilities are being stretched thin. Search and rescue operations for individuals missing from Typhoon Kalmaegi have been suspended due to safety concerns, further complicating recovery efforts.

Wrap-up
As Super Typhoon Fung-wong continues to impact the Philippines, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders. The storm serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters in the region.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team