Latest news Tropical storm "Yagi": flooding in the Philippines

Tropical storm "Yagi" has caused severe flooding and landslides in the Philippines. At least ten people have died so far, according to disaster control: Five of the victims were buried under masses of mud, including a pregnant woman. Four people, including two small children, drowned in the floods. Another victim was electrocuted.

At least ten other people were injured in landslides, it was reported. In some parts of the country, people had to wade through chest-high floods or be rescued from their homes by boat.

The greater Manila area was also affected, where school lessons were partially suspended. Several domestic flights were canceled for safety reasons, and shipping was also suspended, especially in eastern and central parts of the country, according to the coast guard.

Tropical storm could soon become a typhoon

"Yagi", which is called "Enteng" in the Philippines, is expected to gain considerable strength by Wednesday, according to the national weather bureau. "It could also reach the highest category of a typhoon by Thursday or Friday," it said.

The Southeast Asian island state is hit by an average of around 20 typhoons every year. As recently as July, more than 30 people lost their lives in the wake of Typhoon Gaemi. The worst storm to date, "Haiyan", claimed the lives of more than 6,300 people in November 2013.

SDA