Supertyphoon Uwan (Fung-Wong) Poised to Enter Philippine Area of Responsibility via Catanduanes

A powerful supertyphoon locally named Uwan—internationally designated Fung-Wong—is forecast to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) later today or early tomorrow, with Catanduanes identified as the most likely entry point, according to the latest bulletin from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).As of 5:00 AM today, Typhoon Uwan was located approximately 1,100 kilometers east of Bicol Region, packing maximum sustained winds of 215 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 265 kph. It is moving west-northwest at 20 kph, a trajectory that places eastern provinces of the Bicol Region—particularly Catanduanes—directly in its path.

PAGASA has raised Signal No. 4 over Catanduanes and parts of Albay and Camarines Sur in anticipation of the storm’s arrival, with higher signal levels expected within the next 24 hours as Uwan intensifies further. The typhoon is classified as a Category 4-equivalent supertyphoon on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, making it one of the strongest systems to threaten the Philippines this season.

Heavy Rainfall and Storm Surge Warnings
Uwan is expected to bring torrential rains exceeding 200 millimeters in 24 hours, triggering landslides and flash floods in low-lying and mountainous areas. Coastal communities in Bicol, Eastern Visayas, and Southern Luzon are also on high alert for storm surges of up to 4 meters, especially during high tide.

“The combination of extreme winds, flooding rains, and storm surge poses a significant threat to life and property,” warned PAGASA Deputy Administrator Nathaniel Servando. “Residents in vulnerable zones must heed local government evacuation advisories immediately.”

Government Mobilization Underway
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has activated its emergency operations centers nationwide. Prepositioned relief goods, search-and-rescue teams, and emergency medical units are being deployed to Bicol and adjacent regions. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered all regional disaster offices to “prioritize preemptive evacuations and ensure zero casualty.”

International meteorological agencies, including the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) and Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), continue to monitor Fung-Wong closely, noting its potential to undergo further intensification before landfall.

Public Urged to Stay Informed
Authorities are urging the public to monitor official PAGASA updates via radio, television, and verified social media accounts. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the eastern seaboards of Luzon and Visayas, while domestic and international flights may face disruptions in the coming days.

As Supertyphoon Uwan approaches, the nation braces for what could become one of the most destructive weather systems of the year.

— With reports from PAGASA, NDRRMC, and international weather agencies