Typhoon Haiyan Hits Philippines

Report

The death toll from one of the strongest storms on record that ravaged the central Philippine city of Tacloban could reach 10,000 people after the extend of massive devastation became apparent and horrified residents spoke of storm surges as high as trees.

Regional police chief Elmer Soria said he was briefed by Leyte provincial Gov. Dominic Petilla late on Saturday and told there were about 10,000 deaths on the island, mostly by drowning and from collapsed buildings. The governor's figure was based on reports from village officials in areas where Typhoon Haiyan slammed Friday.

Tacloban city administrator Tecson Lim said that the death toll in the city alone "could go up to 10,000."

Rescue efforts have been launched. Prayers for the victims.