Ketsana ravages Philippines

The tropical storm hit Manila, Philippines on Saturday. It had dumped 16.2 inches of rain for 12 hours, submurging some 80% of Manila’s area.

Heavy rains in Manila and the surrounding provinces triggered landslides and the worst flooding in more than 40 years. Telephone lines in the country were badly congested. Air force helicopters fanned out across Manila at first light Sunday to look for survivors.

Until later afternoon on Monday, some 100 people were killed and over 400,000 others must seek emergency shelters, local officials reported.

By Hải Minh