Residents secure the roof of their house as Typhoon Mangkhut approaches Luzon island. (Photo: CNN)

The coastal town of Baggao in Cagayan was the first place hit by the massive storm. 5 million people are estimated to be affected by the world’s strongest storm this year. Thousands have been evacuated amid warnings of 6m storm surges. Warnings have been issued in provinces on Luzon island, while sea and air travel has been restricted.

The Union Point Park Complex is seen flooded as Hurricane Florence comes ashore in New Bern, North Carolina, the US, September 14, 2018. (Photo: Reuters)

Meanwhile, hurricane Florence downgraded to tropical storm when it reached North Carolina on Friday (local time). At least 5 deaths have been reported. Heavy rain flooded the coastal city of New Bern, which is home to approximately 30,000 people. About 2.5 million people have been suffering from power cut.