Authorities in the Philippines halted search efforts for victims of last week's deadly Typhoon Kalmaegi on Saturday as Super Typhoon Fung-wong barreled toward the archipelago, threatening catastrophic flooding and landslides. 🌧️
Race Against Time
With wind speeds hitting 170 kph (105 mph), Fung-wong could cover "almost the entire country," warned meteorologist Benison Estareja. Coastal regions like Aurora province and Catanduanes island are bracing for a direct hit, with residents anchoring roofs with ropes and evacuating to higher ground. 🏠💨
Double Disaster
Kalmaegi, 2025's deadliest storm, left 204 dead and 109 missing in the Philippines before claiming five lives in Vietnam. Rescue official Myrra Daven confirmed search operations were paused: "We cannot risk our rescuers becoming casualties." 🚑⚡
Flood Warnings
Forecasters predict over 200mm of rain, risking major river overflows. "We’re hoping for no casualties," said Catanduanes rescuer Roberto Monterola, reflecting the nation’s resilience after repeated disasters. 💔🌊
