Typhoon Fung-Wong, known locally as Uwan, made landfall on November 8, 2025, in Aurora province on the island of Luzon, leading to the evacuation of nearly one million residents. The storm, classified as a super typhoon, brought sustained winds of 115 miles per hour and gusts reaching up to 143 miles per hour. Reports indicate that at least two fatalities have occurred as a result of the storm’s impact.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) had issued warnings about life-threatening storm surges due to the “very intense typhoon.” This marked Fung-Wong as the second significant storm to affect the region within a week, following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which had devastating effects in the Central Philippines, resulting in nearly 200 deaths and additional casualties in Vietnam.
As Fung-Wong approached, civil defense officials confirmed one drowning incident and the recovery of a woman’s body trapped under debris in Catbalogan City. The typhoon’s mass extended approximately 932 miles, already causing severe weather conditions in eastern areas before making landfall.
Emergency Preparedness and Response Efforts
In anticipation of the storm, the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council activated its highest alert level. Civil Defense Director George Keyser emphasized the need for a “state of readiness” during an emergency meeting preceding the storm’s arrival. Keyser warned that the volume of rainfall could be unprecedented, even if the storm’s eye made landfall further north.
The council coordinated efforts among 17 local governments and national agencies to manage the storm’s repercussions. Keyser highlighted that the timeframe from Sunday afternoon through Monday night would be particularly critical for search-and-rescue operations and relief efforts.
Emergency protocols were fully activated, ensuring the readiness of 486 traffic enforcers, 130 flood control teams, and 40 road emergency crews. In addition to these personnel, K-9 units were deployed along with immediate access to boats, cranes, payloaders, and buses for evacuation purposes. The Philippine Information Agency reported that flood control measures were implemented at 71 pumping stations, complemented by video monitoring at 85 critical sites.
In light of the storm’s expected trajectory, meteorologists predict Fung-Wong will continue to be classified as a typhoon as it moves northwesterly across the northwestern Philippines before turning toward Taiwan on Tuesday.
Transportation Disruptions and Ongoing Threats
The storm’s impact has led to significant transportation disruptions, with nearly 300 flights cancelled as several airports closed in anticipation of the severe weather. The ongoing threat of flooding and landslides remains a major concern for local authorities, who continue to monitor the storm’s progression.
As recovery efforts begin, the Philippine government is emphasizing the importance of safety protocols and collaboration among agencies to mitigate the effects of this powerful typhoon. The events surrounding Typhoon Fung-Wong underscore the region’s vulnerability to severe weather patterns and the need for ongoing preparedness in the face of climate challenges.
