13 // INTERNATIONAL HARD NEWS

The Philippines is estimated to be on of the world's most ecologically vulnerable countries according to the National Public Radio (NPR), facing approximately 20 typhoons and storms every year. But only recently have two typhoons of great magnitude ran rampant throughout the country: Typhoon Kalmaegi and Typhoon Fung-Wong.

As of November 10, The two typhoons have an estimated casualty count of 250. Kalmaegi was (currently) the deadliest of the duo, contributing to at least 96% of the total deaths.

After making landfall in the Philippines, Kalmaegi moved west through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. The sudden mudslides and flash floods were devastating, with winds reaching 92 miles per hour. Survivors found sanctuary in various public buildings; schools and evacuation centers were were prime for refuge.

(Effects of Kalmaegi in the Philippines. From the Guardian)

While Fung-Wong is much more granular in its kill count, the cyclone has displaced up to 1.4 million Filipino residents and is northbound toward Taiwan.

With gusts reaching upward of 143 miles per hour, Fung-Wong has been deemed a super typhoon by the Philippine government, marking it as one of many that the Philippines face annually.

The typhoon has flooded up to 132 villages, waterlogging thousands of houses and catalyzing various landslides. With a sweep of 1,100 miles, Fung-Wong's destruction is generous and liberal.

(Estimated path of Fung-Wong. From the BBC)

Fung-Wong was especially cruel in its timing, hitting the Philippines a mere four days before Kalmaegi would even begin to dissipate. These circumstances caused Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare a state of emergency.

Both the United States and Japan have offered assistance, acting as timely auxiliaries for the nation. Updates on Fung-Wong are of continuous scrutiny, and one can only dread just how much more severe this cyclone is going to become.

- C. Thomas Bailey

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02 // MISINFORMATION & DISINFORMATION

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20 // WILDCARD

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MM 2003 // C. Thomas Bailey

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