Typhoon Nona internationally known as Melor, today brought heavy rain and strong winds that left millions without power in Philippines. Officials said at least three people have died. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said the storm toppled trees and cut electricity to at least seven provinces.
It also said that bad weather forced the cancellation of 16 domestic flights today adding to the 56 flights cancelled on Monday. People who fled from their coastal homes spent a sleepless night in evacuation centres. Winds had weakened somewhat this morning but were still recorded at 170 kilometres per hour from 185 kilometres per hour yesterday.
The state weather forecaster said the storm was expected to weaken further as it heads to Mindoro island and out into the South China Sea later in the day.
The last deadly storm to hit the country in October this year killed 54 people and forced thousands to flee their homes in northern provinces.