World Vision works with locals to meet Typhoon Bopha’s challenges

Friday, December 7, 2012

Aid workers face a race against time to ensure survivors of deadly Typhoon Bopha have access to clean drinking water, says international charity World Vision.

Emergency supplies distributed in the immediate wake of the devastating storm only contained enough water for two or three days, leaving many without a supply. Survivors are also only just having power restored in some areas.

Flashfloods and landslides caused by Bopha have left wells in parts of Mindanao contaminated and full of mud, while mudslides and felled trees have hampered aid efforts by rendering roads impassable.

World Vision assessment team member Arlo Ramos said the storm hit an area unused to natural disasters, where the locals were unsure how to prepare and then surprised by the strength of Typhoon Bopha.

“They really did not expect that it would happen in these hard-hit areas, despite warnings,” Mr Ramos said. “It was the first time they had seen that type of flooding, they did not expect that kind of strong wind. Right now you can really sense that they're in a state of shock.

“It's difficult for the survivors to talk, but they want people to know what happened to them. Right now they do not know how to start again. What they need first is food and water. Many have been given supplies but it was just enough for 2 to 3 days. That means after today, that supply is gone.”

World Vision Australia’s head of Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs Anthea Spinks said there were hundreds of people still missing and while survivors searched for their loved ones, aid agencies were there to care for the survivors.

“The survivors of Typhoon Bopha face many challenges, from physical injuries or the loss of loved ones to trying to rebuild,” Ms Spinks said. “It is vital that their immediate needs are supported with emergency supplies.”

Almost 300,000 people have been affected by the typhoon, and World Vision has implemented an emergency response to provide 40,000 people with food, water purification, and non-food items such as blankets, mosquito nets, soap and cooking utensils.

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, Flood, Philippines, Typhoon Bopha

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