The fifth major storm in three weeks is approaching the Philippines, prompting more largescale evacuations and a United Nations request for emergency funds to help the government ease the plight of hard-hit villagers.

Severe Tropical Storm Man-yi, known as Pepito in the Philippines, will strengthen into a typhoon with the strength of Category 4 Saffir-Simpson storm before hitting the island nation on Sunday, AccuWeather meteorologists say.

Typhoon Usagi weakened sharply on Friday after bearing down on the Philippines' northern towns, blowing away houses in its path as authorities brace for another storm that could hit the capital Manila over the weekend.