Philippines evacuates area ahead of Typhoon Melor

(Vatican Radio) In the Philippines, around three quarters of a million people are said to have fled their homes in the path of an approaching storm, Typhoon Melor.  Waves pounded the coast, and strong winds threatened to tear apart houses, and around 750,000 people were advised to leave their homes.

Listen to the report by Alastair Wanklyn: 

When Typhoon Haiyan struck the central Philippines two years ago, the storm left more than 7,000 people dead or missing. Authorities this time urged people to take cover in good time.

The Philippines is typically hit by around 20 typhoons every year.