One of the most powerful typhoons on record has slammed into the Philippines, setting off landslides, knocking out power in one province and cutting communications in island regions.

The world’s strongest typhoon of the year has slammed into the Philippines.

Hurricane Sandy headed north from the Caribbean – where it left nearly 60 dead - to threaten the eastern US today with sheets of rain, high winds and heavy snow as millions were warned to get out of its path.

A potential hurricane is posing a threat to next week’s Republican National Convention in Florida, which culminates in the nomination of Mitt Romney for presidential candidate.

Hundreds of thousands of people in Texas were today ordered to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Ike.