A powerful storm, known as Typhoon Fung-Wong, made landfall in Aurora Province on the island of Luzon in the Philippines on November 8, 2025. This super typhoon, with sustained winds reaching 115 m.p.h. and gusts of up to 143 m.p.h., has led to the evacuation of nearly one million residents. Initial reports indicate at least two fatalities as the storm lashes the coastline.
Typhoon Fung-Wong, referred to locally as Uwan, is the second significant storm to impact the Philippines in recent days. The nation is still recovering from the devastation caused by Typhoon Kalmaegi, which struck just days earlier, resulting in nearly 200 deaths across the Central Philippines and five more in Vietnam, according to CNN.
Severe Weather Conditions and Emergency Response
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) had issued warnings about the potential for life-threatening storm surges associated with this “very intense typhoon.” Civil defense officials reported one individual drowned after the storm made landfall, while firefighters recovered the body of a woman trapped under debris in Catbalogan City.
In response to the impending disaster, almost 300 flights were canceled as several airports closed down. Meteorologists predict that Fung-Wong is likely to remain a typhoon as it moves across the province, with expectations of weakening only after making landfall. The Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has activated its highest alert level in anticipation of high winds and heavy rainfall that may persist from Sunday through Tuesday.
“This is our highest state of readiness,” stated George Keyser, Civil Defense Director, during an emergency meeting before the storm. He emphasized the severity of the forecast: “The volume of rain could be unprecedented, even if the eye makes landfall far north.”
Preparedness Measures and Impact on Communities
Keyser detailed the importance of coordinated efforts among 17 local governments and national agencies to manage the storm’s impact. “Sunday afternoon through Monday night is critical,” he noted, urging an immediate focus on clearing streets for search-and-rescue and relief efforts.
The alert system has mobilized 486 traffic enforcers, 130 flood control teams, and 40 emergency road crews, in addition to K-9 units. The Philippine Information Agency reported that full response protocols for flood control have been activated at 71 pumping stations, with video monitoring set up for 85 critical sites. Additionally, boats, cranes, payloaders, and buses are on standby for evacuations as needed.
The storm’s mass spans approximately 932 miles and has already begun affecting the eastern region of the Philippines with strong winds and heavy rainfall prior to making landfall. As Fung-Wong progresses, it is forecasted to move northwesterly across the northwestern Philippines before veering north and northeast toward Taiwan.
Local authorities stress the importance of maintaining readiness as the storm continues to unfold, with the potential for significant disruption and damage in its wake.
