World Vision responds to devastating Typhoon Bopha

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

World Vision is assessing community needs and providing emergency aid after Typhoon Bopha devastated parts of the Philippines, killing at least 52 people.

The massive storm struck the southern island of Mindanao yesterday, with winds reaching up to 210km/h and causing huge ocean surges, flashfloods and landslides. Locals lost power for several hours and communication lines also went down.

In the hardest-hit areas of Northern Mindanao and the Visayan Islands many buildings suffered damage – including lost roofs – while some roads and bridges have been rendered impassable, cutting off remote villages and hampering rescue and relief efforts. Even an evacuation centre sheltering some of the more than 150,000 people who left their homes was flooded.

World Vision aid worker Herbert Yepis lives in Mindanao, and was there when the storm hit.

“I felt like there was an earthquake because the winds and rain were so strong,” Mr Yepis said. “Our neighbours’ houses were totally damaged. The roof of my house was also blown away.”

International charity World Vision is working with local government agencies to determine the extent of damage and providing relief supplies such as food and blankets to those in need.

More than 1200 people were killed when Typhoon Washi hit the same region last year, but World Vision Australia’s acting head of Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs Karen Alexander said early evacuations may have saved lives.

“We’re saddened by the deaths of more than 50 people, but if people hadn’t sought shelter as soon as warnings were issued the situation may have been worse,” Ms Alexander said. “We also hope the rapid distribution of emergency supplies will keep the casualty numbers from rising.”

In the wake of Typhoon Washi World Vision was able to provide food and food-for-work assistance, water purifying packets and school kits for children, helping more than 50,000 people, including 10,000 children.

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

Media Releases, Emergencies, Asia and the Pacific, Disaster relief, Emergency, Philippines, Tropical Storm Washi, Typhoon Bopha

Back to all Results