Community Under Water in the Philippines
Tropical Storm Ketsana (locally known as Tropical Storm Ondoy) devastated Central and Northern parts of Luzon on 26 September 2009. A total of 341 millimeters of heavy rain fell in a 6 hour period (0800-1400). This is the heaviest rainfall in Manila since July 1967.
It is clear that the storm has had devastating impact including the loss of homes, properties, livelihoods, and access to basic services such as health and education. At the same time conditions in the evacuation centers or temporary settlements are increasingly precarious. The floods have been slow to subside and access to affected populations is very difficult, thereby compounding the challenges faced by the communities.
Due to our preparedness efforts on the ground in the Philippines, we were able to respond quickly to the tropical storm. We have distributed hundreds of emergency kits to affected children; these include essentials such as clothes and soap. Plastic jugs to store water will also be provided. This work will be expanded to reach affected children and their families who are staying outside evacuation centres. Teams of staff continue to conduct rapid assessments in affected communities. As part of the assessments, Save the Children will prioritise childrens need for psychosocial support.
Find out more about our response