Typhoon Phanfone kills several in Philippines

At least 20 people were killed by Typhoon Phanfone as the storm's full effects became apparent on Thursday, according to officials.

Among the dead were a 13-year-old boy who was electrocuted, a man killed by a tree branch and another had a fatal
car accident due to the conditions, the Philippines disaster agency said.

The death toll may continue to rise as authorities search for a number of people who are still missing after the destructive winds came ashore over Christmas.

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The confirmed fatalities were from the provinces of Iloilo, Leyte and Capiz.

Thousands affected, internet down

The deadly typhoon contained winds of up to 195 kilometers per hour (120 miles per hour).

Tens of thousands were left stranded, homeless or in fear for their lives as Phanfone caused destruction across the Southeast Asian country. Communication has become difficult, with online access and mobile phone coverage at a minimum.

Read more: Death toll rises in southern Philippines earthquake

The storm has left more than 24,000 residents stuck at ports or evacuation centers, and thousands of others housebound.

Phanfone, the 21st cyclone to hit the archipelagic country in 2019 alone, is expected to continue to wreak havoc until Saturday, according to the weather bureau.

jsi/kl (AFP, dpa, Reuters)

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