Super Typhoon Rolly (Goni), the world’s most powerful storm this year has struck the Philippines and will soon hit Vietnam only a week after Typhoon Quinta
Typhoon Rolly hit the eastern island province of Catanduanes from the Pacific, with winds of 225 kilometres per hour and gusts of 280kph.
The storm moved through heavily populated regions including the main island of Luzon, causing at least 10 deaths and leaving three people missing, before shifting towards Vietnam.
Over 390,000 people have fled their homes, including more than 345,000 people to evacuation centres, raising concerns about further spreading COVID-19.
The Philippines has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases in South-East Asia.
The scale of the devastation is still being assessed as Typhoon Rolly has wreaked havoc on local communities still reeling from the impacts of Typhoon Quinta and COVID-19.
On October 23, Typhoon Quinta brought heavy rains and flooding to the Philippines, causing 22 deaths, 39 injuries and leaving 4 people missing. Over 176,500 families more were affected by the typhoon across seven regions.
More than 52,000 houses were damaged by Typhoon Quinta and caused 90 million pesos (AUD $8,519,936.07) worth of damage to infrastructure.
The National Director of Caritas Philippines, Bishop Colin Bagaforo, says “The typhoon will surely bring greater poverty to our communities, as they have also been battling against the effects of COVID-19. So with humility, we appeal for everyone’s sincere acts of kindness, generosity and compassion.”
One of the charitable organisations, Caritas Philippines is monitoring the progress of Typhoon Rolly, and is working with local church organisations to respond. The charity group is assessing infrastructure damage and shelter.
The impact of COVID-19 poses a challenge for the charity group. Support will then be channeled through Caritas Australia’s church and non-government organisation partners on the ground.
Caritas Australia’s thoughts and prayers are with the people of the Philippines as they face the challenges of Typhoons and COVID-19.
Donations can be made to Caritas Australia to provide support for emergencies like Super Typhoon Rolly or by calling 1800 024 413 toll free.
Caritas Australia is a member of Caritas Internationalis, one of the world’s largest humanitarian networks in the world with 162 agencies operating in 200 countries and territories.
Featured image: Flooding in Cagsawa Ruins in Daraga, Albay | Photo: NASSA – Caritas Philippines
