 During the early hours of December 3 , Typhoon Bopha made its closest approach to Palau , bringing heavy rains and strong winds to much of the archipelago . Winds up to 215 km / h ( 130 mph ) impacted Angaur and 160 km / h ( 100 mph ) in Peleliu . Widespread damage took place across the republic , with the most severe occurring in the states of Angaur , Peleliu , Ngchesar , Melekeok , Ngiwal , and Ngaraard . Initial assessments stated that 92 homes were destroyed and 59 others were severely damaged ; however , later reports stated that nearly 200 were destroyed . This left roughly 350 people homeless . Along eastern facing coasts , storm surge caused extensive coastal damage and , in some cases , pushed several hundred feet inland , cutting off roads and leaving behind several feet of debris . Hundreds of residents were forced to evacuate to higher ground as a result of the flooding . According to preliminary reports , Angaur Island experienced extensive damage from the storm . At least six homes were destroyed and travel was severely hampered due to downed trees and debris blocking roads . On Peleliu , eight large coral masses were driven onto the reef surrounding the island . Crops and vegetation across the island sustained heavy damage ; however , most homes were reportedly " ok " . 
