Residents of typhoon-hit Philippine towns have moved to higher ground amid the threat of more destruction after floods and landslides killed up to 600 people.
Typhoon Nanmadol, the most powerful typhoon to hit the country this year, had gained strength and was expected to make landfall close to the worst flood-affected areas on the eastern coast later on Thursday, with winds of 185 kph.
With flying conditions treacherous and roads cut off, officials said there was little they could do to protect thousands of people made homeless by the floods and who were running short of food and drinking water.
Airlines cancelled several domestic and international flights, and schools, government offices and the Manila foreign exchange market closed early.