Casualties rising as World Vision responds to Typhoon Haiyan

Monday, November 11, 2013

Casualties in the Philippines are expected to rise as the first emergency workers reach the areas worst hit by Typhoon Haiyan, World Vision warned today.

More than 9.5 million people are now confirmed to have been affected in the Philippines. Reports from the city of Tacloban, already estimate over 10,000 people have died in that area alone.  And the number of fatalities is likely to rise as communications channels are restored and access improves to the worst affected areas. 

World Vision staff have been battling to reach survivors after roads and bridges have been destroyed. Blankets and tarpaulins to provide temporarily shelter for some of the most vulnerable people will reach the Philippines today.

World Vision’s National Director in the Philippines, Josaias Dela Cruz said that time is of the essence in responding to the significant humanitarian need generated by Typhoon Haiyan’s destruction.

"Every minute counts as the death toll rises. The extent of the damage is still not fully known, we are doing everything we can to scale up as quickly as possible and begin bringing relief and hope to our country. This first shipment of emergency supplies will be tremendously helpful."

As casualties climb and the devastating impact of Typhoon Haiyan is increasingly evident, World Vision is launching one of its largest relief operations in the country's history, mobilizing staff across the country to respond to the disaster. World Vision has launched a multi-million dollar fundraising appeal to help meet the needs of the response.

Three World Vision emergency assessment teams are in the worst-affected areas, including Bohol Province, Samar and Leyte Province, and Panay Island. Power outages plus the destruction of major roads, airports, and infrastructure have made it incredibly difficult to reach survivors to provide urgently-needed assistance and get a clearer picture of the total devastation. Teams are traveling by plane, boat, and motorbike to reach these villages as quickly as possible.

Right now, the most urgent needs are water and sanitation, food, temporary shelter, child protection and psychosocial support. Staff care is also a priority as many staff have been personally affected by this disaster and have been managing back-to-back disasters in the midst of one of the country's busiest hurricane seasons.

To donate to the Emergency Preparedness Fund, which helps World Vision respond to disasters, call 13 32 40 or go to www.worldvision.com.au

World Vision staff are on the ground and are available for interview.

Media contact: Gabrielle Brophy – 0407 575 112 /gabrielle.brophy@worldvision.com.au

Media Releases, Typhoon Haiyan, Asia and the Pacific, Disaster relief, Foreign Aid, Philippines, Typhoon Haiyan

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