Typhoon Saola has triggered landslides and floods in the Philippines, killing eight and forcing thousands to flee their homes.

Saola brought more than 7.8 inches of rain in a mountainous area in Yilan County, Taiwan, hampering traffic on Tuesday.

Hundreds of people battled neck-deep floods as heavy rains. With more than 145,000 evacuated according to the civil defence chief.

Although Saola did not directly hit the Philippines, its massive rain band has exacerbated the effects of a low pressure area in the vicinity. Saola is now reported to be heading slowly northward to Taiwan, packing maximum sustained winds 74 miles an hour near its centre, according to the state weather bureau. About 20 storms slam into the Philippines from the Pacific every year, causing heavy casualties and damage.

Written and presented by Ann Salter