29 Dec 2022

Philippines storm death toll rises to 29

9:09 am on 29 December 2022
Residents surveying damage caused by heavy rain and floods in Oroquieta City.

Residents surveying damage caused by heavy rain and floods in Oroquieta City. Photo: AFP PHOTO / COURTESY OF ANGELICA VILLARTA

At least 29 people are dead and dozens missing amid heavy rain and flooding in the Philippines over the Christmas weekend.

Close to 100,000 have been staying in emergency shelters in parts of eastern, central and southern Philippines.

Most of the deaths have been from drowning, while among the missing were fishermen whose boats capsized.

Video showed rescuers pulling people to safety through chest-deep water using ropes.

Thousands of homes have been damaged by the flooding, as well as roads and bridges.

Some areas are without power or water.

Forecasters warned heavy rains may hit areas already affected by flooding in the next day.

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