MANILA — A typhoon killed at least 10 people as it churned across the Philippines and hit the capital, prompting the evacuation of almost 150,000 people and shutting financial markets, government offices and schools, rescue officials said on Wednesday.
The eye of Typhoon Rammasun, the strongest storm to hit the country this year, passed to the south of Manila on Wednesday after cutting a path through eastern islands, toppling trees and power lines and causing electrocutions and blackouts. It brought storm surges to Manila Bay and prompted disaster officials to evacuate slum-dwellers on the capital's outskirts.
Richard Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross, said there was minimal damage in the capital but staff were trying to rescue people trapped by fallen debris in Batangas City to the south where two people were electrocuted. "We have not received reports of major flooding in Metro Manila because the typhoon did not bring rain, but the winds were strong," he said.
IN-DEPTH
- Typhoon Rammasun Slugs Philippines Bound for Manila
- Typhoon Rammasun makes landfall in the Philippines (weather.com)
- Glenda makes landfall at Rapu-rapu Island (Manila Times)
