Typhoon Fun-wong bears down on Philippines just days after previous storm | DW News

Key Concepts

• Super Typhoon Fun Wong: The second major storm to hit the Philippines in quick succession, characterized by destructive winds and life-threatening storm surges.
• Typhoon Calmei (KGI): The preceding typhoon that caused widespread destruction and loss of life, leaving the country still in recovery.
• Storm Surge: A rise in sea level caused by a storm, which can lead to severe flooding in coastal areas.
• Anticipatory Action: A proactive approach to disaster preparedness, involving providing assistance before a disaster strikes to mitigate its impact.
• Nationwide State of Emergency/Calamity: A declaration by the government that mobilifies resources and facilitates aid distribution in affected areas.
• Disaster Management System: The established framework and processes the Philippine government employs to respond to natural disasters.
• Vulnerability: The susceptibility of communities and individuals to the impacts of natural disasters, exacerbated by prior damage and ongoing recovery efforts.
• Logistics Challenges: Difficulties in reaching affected populations and delivering aid due to damaged infrastructure and widespread destruction.
• Corruption Allegations: Concerns regarding the misuse of funds intended for flood control projects, potentially hindering mitigation efforts.

Super Typhoon Fun Wong and its Impact on the Philippines

The Philippines is currently facing the imminent threat of Super Typhoon Fun Wong, the second major storm to impact the archipelago within a short period. This super typhoon is predicted to make landfall within hours, bringing with it life-threatening storm surges, destructive winds reaching nearly 200 kilometers per hour, and significant flooding. The country is still reeling from the devastation caused by Typhoon Calmei (referred to as KGI in the transcript), which battered the nation just days prior, resulting in widespread destruction, including cars and homes being swept away.

Preceding Devastation from Typhoon Calmei

Typhoon Calmei caused immense damage, particularly in Sabu province, where over 200 deaths have been accounted for. The exceptionally heavy rainfall from Calmei overwhelmed dikes and flood control systems, leading to rapid river overflows. The destruction left by Calmei has left many structures damaged and debris scattered, making the Philippines more vulnerable to the impending Super Typhoon Fun Wong. A nationwide state of emergency, declared by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., remains in effect, highlighting the severity of the situation. The emotional toll is profound, with some families still holding wakes for their loved ones, and one individual recounting the tragic loss of 10 relatives, unable to save them due to the overwhelming conditions.

Preparations for Super Typhoon Fun Wong

Authorities are undertaking extensive preparations for Fun Wong. In the last 24 to 48 hours, over 100,000 Filipinos in areas directly in the storm's path have been preemptively evacuated. Super Typhoon Fun Wong is locally known as "Bagyong Yolanda" and is expected to make landfall in the northeastern part of the Philippines with wind gusts exceeding 185 kilometers per hour, potentially making it the strongest typhoon of the year for the country. Forecasters warn that the storm's vast footprint could cover the entire nation, with expectations of over 200 mm of rainfall and widespread flooding, likely causing major river basins to overflow.

Vulnerability and Urgency

The ongoing recovery from Typhoon Calmei amplifies the vulnerability of the population to Fun Wong. Authorities are working with a sense of urgency to hasten recovery and rescue operations for those still missing from the previous typhoon. Satellite imagery indicates that Fun Wong's size encompasses virtually the entire Philippines, promising further floods and calamities in the wake of Calmei. Residents in affected areas, such as Sibu, are remaining vigilant, having prepared go-bags and being ready to evacuate to designated centers, prioritizing safety over their homes.

Government Response and Support

The Philippine government has declared a nationwide state of calamity, which facilitates the immediate availability of funds for areas in need. Food supplies and rescue teams have been prepositioned to assist communities requiring rescue. However, recent allegations of corruption involving politicians pocketing funds designated for flood control projects cast a shadow over these efforts, as these projects are crucial for mitigating loss of life and property.

The Philippines' Resilience and Disaster Management

Regis Chapman, Director of the World Food Program in the Philippines, highlights that the Philippines is no stranger to frequent storms, with Fun Wong being the 21st storm to impact the country this year. Despite the challenging circumstances, the government possesses a strong disaster management system that has been actively preparing throughout the typhoon season. While the two successive storms are not directly hitting the exact same locations, with central parts of the country recovering from Calmei and the north preparing for Fun Wong, the cumulative impact is significant. The Philippines also faces other natural challenges, including earthquakes and volcanic activity, compounding the difficulties for its residents.

World Food Program's Role and Anticipatory Action

The World Food Program (WFP) plays a crucial role in supporting disaster relief efforts, working closely with the government. They provide logistics support to ensure that government-provided family food packs reach those in need. A key initiative highlighted is the WFP's collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development on "anticipatory action." This involves providing cash assistance to individuals in high-risk areas before a storm hits. This allows vulnerable populations to take proactive measures such as stocking up on food, protecting their livelihoods (e.g., moving fishing boats), or facilitating evacuation to shelters. Over the past few days, approximately 157,000 people have received cash assistance through this program. This anticipatory action not only empowers individuals to heed warnings and protect themselves but also demonstrably reduces the cost of eventual disaster response from a human perspective.

Conclusion

The Philippines is facing a critical period with the arrival of Super Typhoon Fun Wong, compounding the devastation left by Typhoon Calmei. The country's resilience is being tested by frequent natural disasters, but a robust disaster management system, coupled with proactive measures like anticipatory action by organizations like the World Food Program, are crucial in mitigating the impact on its vulnerable population. The effectiveness of these efforts is paramount in saving lives and protecting livelihoods amidst these recurring calamities.