Tropical Storm Fung-Wong will strengthen into a typhoon as it moves closer to the Philippines on Friday evening, warns the Central Weather Administration (CWA). This comes as Typhoon Kalmaegi, which impacted the Philippines just last week, left at least 188 dead and more than 100 missing amid devastating infrastructure damage. Fung-Wong will strain the rescue and reconstruction efforts further with its potential of reaching super typhoon status before making landfall on Luzon Island over the weekend.

The CWA stated that although the storm's intensity will weaken after hitting the Philippines, it may turn northward after entering the Taiwan Strait and impact Taiwan itself. A more definitive path is expected by the weekend.

In addition, the CWA warns the public that regardless of Fung-Wong’s direction, a coast guard warning will likely be issued on Monday, followed by a land warning around Tuesday, due to wave and wind activity. Furthermore, heavy rainfall is expected in northern, eastern, and the mountainous regions of Taiwan, with Tuesday and Wednesday predicted to be the most intense days. As Fung-Wong moves, the rainfall hotspot will shift from northern, eastern, and mountainous areas to central and southern Taiwan and the Hualien-Taitung area. The CWA advises the public to be on high alert while the storm activity is closely monitored.