Typhoon Forces Thousands To Flee In Philippines

May 18, 2008 8:32 a.m. EST

Manila, Philippines (AHN) - At least one person was killed while thousands were reportedly evacuated when tropical storm "Halong", locally known as "Cosme," hit the Philippines archipelago on Saturday evening, local television news agency said Sunday.

According to ABS-CBN News, many houses were destroyed brought by heavy rains in northern part of the Philippines, particularly in the Pangasinan province.

It was reported that "Cosme" would hit Ilocos Sur region but it changed route Saturday and turned toward Pangasinan.

Pangasinan province was badly hit by the tropical storm where building, bridges, roads and power outposts were damaged.

Several towns in Pangasinan were suffering from power failure since Saturday evening.

Some vehicles were stranded along national and provincial highways.

Some roads were also closed and impassable due to fallen trees and landslides in the area, report said.

Report also said some towns in Pangasinan have declared a state of calamity after the clearing operation.

Residents who were struck by the storm were appealing for medicines and relief goods, report said.