South East Asia: millions affected by six natural disasters

Over the past two weeks, five countries in South East Asia have been hit by nature. Millions have been affected by six disasters that are stretching the resources of governments and the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

The eruption of Mount Merapi, Indonesia’s most active volcano, an earthquake on the Mentawai Islands off the coast of Sumatra, flooding in Thailand and Viet Nam and typhoons and cyclones in Myanmar and Philippines have claimed the lives of hundreds, and displaced thousands.

Local Red Cross volunteers are on the ground in each affected region. They are providing emergency assistance such as medical care, relief supplies and drinking water, and, where appropriate, providing food through relief kitchens.

The best way Canadians can help in times of disaster is by making a financial contribution to the International Disaster Relief Fund (IDRF). The IDRF allows us to respond within hours of an emergency, well before any money has been received from supporters. It also allows us to implement disaster preparedness programs to create stronger and more resilient communities.

Please donate- your help can’t wait.

Posted:  October 29, 2010