MANILA: The Philippines raised its highest storm alert and evacuated thousands of people on Thursday (Nov 14), as Super Typhoon Usagi barrelled towards its already disaster-ravaged north.

Mapped: Typhoon Usagi weakens over Philippines but Taiwan braces for severe weather - Heavy rains accompanying storm may cause flash flooding in low-lying and inland areas

The fifth major storm in three weeks is approaching the Philippines, prompting more largescale evacuations and a United Nations request for emergency funds to help the government ease the plight of ha