Typhoon hits Philippines; 3,000 people evacuated

Manila Oct 18: More than 3,000 people in coastal areas were evacuated when a powerful typhoon Megi struck northern Philippines on Monday, Oct 18.

Typhoon Megi hit the country's main island with strong rains, winds and huge waves. It damaged buildings, electricity poles, roads, halting train service and triggered massive emergency preparations in the country.

Authorities have warned millions of residents and rice farmers along the typhoon's path to look out for damage to crops, homes and power lines.

Thousands of people in the coastal areas have sought shelter in school buildings and town halls, which is now turned into evacuation centers.

Ships and fishing vessels were told to stay in ports. Several domestic flights were also canceled due to the powerful storm.

The Philippine weather bureau said the powerful typhoon Megi sustained winds speeds of 225 kilometers per hour and gusts of 162 mph (260 kph) as it made landfall midday at Palanan Bay in northeastern Isabela province, and was losing its power while crossing the mountains of the main northern island of Luzon.

According to the China Meteorological Administration the Powerful typhoon Megi is expected to move toward southern China, which already has evacuated more than 100,000 people.

OneIndia News