Typhoon kills 4, leaves 1000s powerless in Philippines

A super typhoon battered the Philippines overnight with strong winds and torrential rains, leaving at least four people dead and many provinces without electricity.

"Lawin" -- known internationally as Haima -- was the second typhoon to hit the country in just four days, following Karen (Sarika), which displaced thousands of people, toppled electric pylons, tore off roofs and smashed windows.

The state-run news agency (PNA) reported Thursday that Lawin had severely damaged houses, toppled trees, electric posts and left several areas inundated with water.

DzMM radio station, citing a statement by a local council member, said two people had drowned in floodwaters in Ifugao province late Wednesday, while two construction workers died when a landslide buried their accomodation in the mountain province of Benguet.

Updates from Cagayan in the country's north said thousands of residents were still experiencing the effects of the storm as it moved away from the Philippines area of responsibility.

Lawin is expected to exit the country Thursday evening.