Philippines is under massive storm attack, and millions of people Friday were fleeing winds that were hitting upwards of 200 miles per hour.
At least two have been confirmed dead by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, NBC reported. Fox News reported Friday morning that four were confirmed dead, however.
The category-five storm, a typhoon given the name Haiyan, has brought on massive mudslides, treacherous flash flooding and storm surges that have driven waves 30 feet or higher.
The nation’s communications systems have been mostly obliterated, and emergency officials say the death toll is more than likely to rise.
“It is the most powerful storm ever to make landfall,” said the lead meteorologist for the Weather Channel, to NBC. “It is as strong a typhoon as you can get, basically.”
At least 12 million are at risk. The storm first struck the islands of Leyte and Samar, with landfall winds of 195 miles per hour, NBC said.
“Please do not underestimate this typhoon,” said the governor of Southern Leyte province, to DZBB radio. “It is very powerful. We lost power, and all roads are impassable because of fallen trees. We just have to pray.”
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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