INT: Typhoon Xangsane Slams Phillipines

News sources are saying this morning that Xangsane (a.k.a. Milenyo) has killed at least 11 people in the Philippines but this comprehensive article indicates that the volcano I mentioned yesterday has not erupted or caused other problems yet. It also notes the historical significance of the storm: "Since 1995, there has been no strong typhoon that has crossed this close to Manila," Nathaniel Cruz, the chief weather forecaster, told reporters, after the capital's alert level was raised.

Here is an AP Photo from the storm:

Xangsane's Fury - Sept. 28, 2006 - Motorists try to avoid fallen coconut trees along an avenue as typhoon Xangsane batters Manila Thursday Sept. 28, 2006. Xangsane unleashed powerful winds as much as 130 kilometers per hour (81 mph) and dumped heavy rains across northern and central Philippines on Thursday cutting off roads and phone lines as authorities shut down schools, ferries and the country's financial markets. At least four people were reportedly killed by Xangsane, the 10th typhoon to hit the country this season. (AP Photo/ Bullit Marquez)

Some clarifications from Jim Andrews (PREMIUM | PRO) on the official meteorological observations from the storm: