Damage in Philippines after Typhoon Haima devastation

Habitat for Humanity inspects damage in Philippines after Typhoon Haima devastation

Shelter expert Habitat for Humanity is today assessing damage to homes and farms in the Northern Philippines after the category four typhoon Haima brought intense winds and rain.

Habitat for Humanity Asia Pacific Vice President Rick Hathaway said the charity had assessment teams ready to deploy in the Philippines, and “are well prepared to respond to this emergency.”

“We are very concerned that there may be loss of lives, and heavy damage to homes from this powerful typhoon, as the eye of the storm is passing over the northern Philippines right now,” he said.

“We are in contact with the local authorities, and we are closely monitoring this disaster situation.”

Habitat for Humanity New Zealand CEO Claire Szabo said half a million people had evacuated their homes ahead of the typhoon making landfall.

“We’re talking about tens of thousands of families who have endured multiple severe storms in the past weeks, and our thoughts and prayers are with them.”

“While it’s a blessing that the Philippine government acted swiftly to evacuate many, it’s likely for many that their homes, crops, stock and livelihoods are significantly damaged and possibly destroyed.”

“Habitat is part of a group of charities responding now in the northern areas of the Philippines to assess damage, and move forward with meeting those families’ shelter needs so they can return home.”

“We’re urging the people of New Zealand to help us act swiftly, and to show their support for Habitat’s work in the Philippines by making a donation.”

Ms Szabo said Habitat would be able to help people with temporary shelter kits, for those who were unable to reach evacuation centres.

And she said with storm surges expected and ongoing rain there was a threat of flooding and landslides, especially in areas of the northern provinces which were hard-hit by Typhoon Karen last weekend. Habitat was deploying teams focusing on Northern and Central Luzon.

Donations can be made at www.habitat.org.nz/donate

ENDS.

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