A new storm in the Pacific could strengthen into a powerful typhoon before hitting the Philippine archipelago ... a key concrete bridge connecting two towns partly collapsed Thursday after logs swept by rampaging river currents smashed into it.

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.

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.