Philippines braces for typhoon

Authorities in northern Philippines were on high alert yesterday, as powerful typhoon Mangkhut was expected to bring heavy rains, landslides and floods to the region.

Mangkhut, which is expected to enter Philippine territory this evening, will be one of the most powerful typhoons to visit the country this year.

“Mangkhut [known in the Philippines as ‘Ompong’] has further intensified while continuing to move westward,” the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said yesterday. The storm is expected to carry maximum sustained winds of up to 170 kilometres per hour near the centre, and gusts of 210km/h.

According to Armed Forces Civil Relations Chief, Col Noel Detoyato, the military has been placed on standby for rescue efforts. “The military continues to be on a red alert status,” he said.

Mangkhut is expected to develop into a Super Typhoon.

“Upon entering the country, the typhoon’s maximum sustained winds may reach 210km/h and gusts of 260km/h,” Pagasa said.