After devastating typhoon, one phone survived flooding and three days in the mud

After Devastating Typhoon, One Phone Survived Flooding and Three Days in the Mud

When Typhoon Kalmaegi swept through the Philippines, it caused massive destruction. Many lives were lost, homes were ruined, and communities faced the difficult task of rebuilding. In the midst of this disaster, a remarkable story emerged from one affected person.

Survival Against the Odds

A Reddit user named bricksandcanvas shared on r/iphone how the typhoon’s floodwaters destroyed their house in Mandaue City, Cebu. They nearly drowned while escaping but safely reached higher ground. Their phone was carried away by the flood and was only found three days later, stuck in the mud.

“After cleaning it up and plugging it in, it turned on straight away and worked fine.”

The phone in question was an iPhone 17 Pro Max, protected by a CARE by PanzerGlass Samba Vanilla case. Although the case might have offered minimal help in this extreme situation, the phone’s survival is extraordinary.

Technical Details

The iPhone 17 Pro Max has an IP68 rating, designed to endure up to 30 minutes underwater at a depth of 1.5 meters, which partially explains its resilience during the flood.

Context and Impact

Typhoon Kalmaegi caused catastrophic damage across the Philippines.
Many people lost homes and lives, with communities starting to rebuild.
One phone survived unexpected flooding and mud immersion for days.

This story adds to a growing list of phones that have shocked users with their durability under extreme conditions.

Author's Summary

The resilience of one iPhone 17 Pro Max surviving three days buried in mud after Typhoon Kalmaegi highlights the surprising durability technology can offer in disasters.

Android Authority — 2025-11-07