MANILA, Philippines (July 18, 2009)--At least three people are dead after a tropical storm hit the Philippines Friday, officials said.

Two other people were missing after heavy rains fell over the northern and central part of the country.

Authorities said floodwaters were waist-deep in some areas, and forced the evacuation of more than 10,000 people.

Forecasters said the storm is heading out of the country, blowing off toward Hong Kong and southern China.

Meanwhile, workers have been clearing landslides that blocked several mountain roads.

Bridges overwhelmed by swollen rivers were passable Saturday.