Philippines brace for more rain as tropical storm hits

People in the Philippines are bracing for more wild weather only a week after flood waters inundated the capital, Manila.

Tropical storm Helen (Kai-Tak) has triggered warnings in seven provinces on the main Philippine island of Luzon, where Manila is located.

Authorities have urged people to brace for more rain and potential flooding, while the weather is already presenting a challenge to relief workers.

The Philippines’ weather bureau warned winds from the tropical storm would stir up the monsoon rain clouds unleashing even more rainfall for the capital region.

More than 3.4 million people have already been affected by torrential rains drenching Manila, with almost one million displaced.

World Vision is distributing food and emergency items to 50,000 people around Manila, as more than 400,000 crowd into evacuation centres.

World Vision Philippines associate director Imelda Ochavillo said despite the challenging weather, aid workers would continue to do their job.

“We are now faced with the daunting task of providing relief assistance to 10,000 flood-stricken families amidst the threat of Typhoon Kai-Tak,” Ms Ochavillo said. “But World Vision will press on with our relief efforts.”

More than 90 people were killed in last week’s floods, and the losses to agriculture and infrastructure amount to an estimated $US14.7m.

The heavy rains are expected to continue for two to three days.

World Vision currently supports over 6900 children in the Manila region who are all safe and accounted for.

Donations to the Emergency Preparedness Fund help World Vision prepare for disasters, including floods. Donate at www.worldvision.com.au or by calling 13 32 40.