Thousands evacuated as heavy rains flood Manila

A tropical storm has dumped heavy rain on the Philippine capital of Manila, forcing the closure of government offices, schools and government offices.

Thousands of residents in low-lying areas were moved to higher ground as flood waters rose quickly after the equivalent of half a month's usual rain fell in six hours.

Tropical storm Fung-Wong, with maximum winds of 50 mph and gusts of up to 62 mph, was hovering about 130 miles east of Casiguran town in northern Aurora province. Northern provinces were under storm alert, and told to expect rains with gusty winds.

More than 20,000 people were evacuated in the city of Marikina in eastern metropolitan Manila, where the river swelled and reached a critical level.

Local authorities sent rubber boats and amphibious vehicles to rescue residents from their waterlogged homes, as floods were past head-deep in some areas.

The Philippine Stock Exchange suspended trade after the government cancelled work and classes in the capital.