On Sunday 2 November, Typhoon Kalmaegi made eight landfalls across the Philippines, killing 224 people. And while communities were still reeling from the devastation caused by this typhoon, on Sunday 9 November Super Typhoon Fung-wong made landfall, bringing violent winds, torrential rains, and life-threatening storm surges – with an estimated 30 million people impacted by the storm.
The crisis has been further exacerbated by a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu and neighbouring provinces in September, further straining the already limited local resources.
An escalating crisis
Families have already been living through the impacts of a deepening climate crisis, and are now facing two disasters within a week. Climate change is making these disasters hit more often than ever before, and with more devastating power.
The reports this morning show that over 1.4 million people have been displaced from high-risk villages. More than 30 million people are estimated to be exposed to the storm’s severe conditions.
The combined impact of the back-to-back disasters is overwhelming local capacity. Women and girls are especially at risk – in evacuation centres without proper facilities, they are exposed to an increased risk of violence.
How is ActionAid responding?
ActionAid Australia is working with the Women’s Emergency Network to provide emergency relief for women and their families. We have been working with this network in the Philippines for over a decade to support women’s leadership in preparing for and responding to disasters.
Right now, they’re assessing the urgent needs on the ground with a focus on women and girls.
But we are in a race against time. As floodwaters rise and landslides trigger, communities get cut off, and roads are washed out.
How can you help?
ActionAid Australia has launched an appeal to support communities in the Philippines who have been impacted by Typhoon Kalmaegi and Typhoon Fung-wong. Donate now to help ActionAid provide dignity kits, clean water, food and shelter assistance to women and their families impacted by the typhoons.