Torrential rain set off by an approaching storm has swamped eastern Philippine cities and towns in widespread floods that have killed at least nine people, trapped others on their roofs and sparked frantic appeals for help.

Thousands of people were evacuated from their homes as parts of the country experienced unprecedented flooding, the authorities said.

By Mikhail Flores MANILA (Reuters) -At least 14 people were killed in the Philippines as Tropical Storm Trami flooded villages, inundated rivers and forced tens of thousands of people to flee their homes as it approached the eastern coast.