Latest super typhoon causes travel disruption in the Philippines

A transport disruption warning has been issued for the Philippines as a second major typhoon struck.

 

Super Typhoon Fung-Wong made landfall on Sunday, bringing damaging winds, heavy rainfall and coastal flooding to large parts of Luzon - home to the capital Manila - and the Visayas islands.

 

At least 325 domestic and 61 international flights were cancelled over the weekend and into today (Monday), according to local reports.

 

Typhoon Fung-Wong, with forecast winds of up to 115mph and gusts as high as 143mph, follows extensive damage caused by Typhoon Kalmaegi.

 

Almost 830,000 families were affected by Kalmaegi, with 73,214 families taking shelter in evacuation centres, according to the country’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

 

A one-year state of national calamity has been declared by the Philippines government as a result.

 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said in updated travel advice: “There are reports of disruption to transport, including domestic flights, electricity and communications in affected areas. 

 

“The risk of flooding and landslides in affected areas is likely to remain over the coming days.”

 

“If you are planning to travel to Luzon or the Philippines check with your travel provider or accommodation before travelling [and] ensure your travel insurance covers natural disasters.”

 

British travellers to the vast Pacific archipelago were urged to follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

 

“If you are in the affected areas follow and monitor local weather updates from the Philippines state weather agency and the Philippines Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council."