Heavy rains from a storm and the seasonal monsoon caused widespread flooding Friday in the Philippine capital and nearby provinces, shutting down schools and government offices.
Local authorities reported thousands were evacuated early Friday from severely inundated communities, some with rapidly flowing waters more than neck high. Local radio stations reported residents taking shelter in the second floor of homes where the water had reached the ceiling of the ground floor.
Manila airport authorities said the rains and radar problems caused delays and the cancellation of at least 28 domestic flights to and from northern and central Philippines affected by Tropical Storm Fung-Wong. At least three international flights heading to Manila were diverted to Clark International Airport in northern Pampanga province, AP reported.