The past few weeks have seen typhoons and severe storms batter a number of countries across Asia. Damage has been significant, ranging from local landslides to flooding, and more storms can be expected as typhoon season has just begun.
One of the hardest hit countries has been the Philippines. As the flood waters from triple typhoons have begun to subside, the clean up begins. While some residents have been able to return to their homes, many people like Jeovina Llamado and her children lost everything in the disaster and remain homeless.
Jeovina's house was one of the many buildings that were destroyed when torrential rain broke dams and flooded rivers. "The water came so fast. It followed us up the steps. We had to smash a window and climb out onto the roof," Jeovina recalled.
The relentless storms that forced Jeovina and her family from their home have also required nearly half a million Manila residents to seek shelter in evacuation centres. Now authorities are warning residents of the risk of leptospirosis, a severe bacterial infection, and diarrhea due to the floods and strained drainage systems
But there is hope.
Thanks to the ongoing support from donors around the world, the Red Cross was quick to act. To date, the Red Cross has provided tens of thousands of people with hot meals, clean drinking water and education services to teach residents how to keep healthy in these difficult conditions.
“Even though the floodwaters have receded in many areas, communities are still in need of relief,” said Selva Sinnadurai, Red Cross country representative. “Many people have lost everything - even the basics like cooking utensils and blankets.” With continued donor support, the Red Cross will ensure that those affected return to a normal way of life.
Disasters like this one are hardly uncommon. Around the globe, the Red Cross has been there to help people affected by emergencies like the recent wildfires on the Canary Islands and floods in Bangladesh. Within hours, the Red Cross was there to lend a hand.
By making a contribution to our International Disaster Relief Fund, you make it possible for us to provide immediate relief to families who have been affected by disasters. Please help us be ready and make a donation to our International Disaster Relief Fund.
We deeply appreciate the generous support we receive from our donors. Your help today ensures that we can respond to whatever tomorrow brings.