UNICEF has launched an appeal for $4.2 million (£2.7 million) to help families affected by the devastating floods caused by Tropical Storm Washi in southern Philippines.
Today, we'll be delivering water and sanitation supplies to ensure 15,000 affected families have clean water and access to toilets.
Donations will also help us provide urgent healthcare, nutrition, education and child protection for an estimated 200,000 children affected by the floods, including 20,000 in evacuation centres.
Donate today
The tropical storm swept through the southern island of Mindanao during the night of 16 December, dropping the equivalent of one month’s rainfall in just one day.
The resulting flash floods, which rose very quickly during the night, killed at least 957 people, with at least 49 still missing.
The water systems of the two main areas affected, Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities, have been totally destroyed, leaving most residents with no safe, reliable source of water.
We've immediately dispatched water kits, hygiene kits, water bladders, temporary pit latrines and mobile water units to the affected area.
"A lack of clean water and sanitation facilities is of great concern, as we know children are highly vulnerable to diarrhoeal disease and dehydration", said Anselme Motcho, Acting Head of UNICEF Philippines.
"UNICEF is on the ground to support the government’s efforts, and is working round the clock to provide for the many children and families affected. We are also carefully monitoring the safety of children in the very overcrowded evacuation centres."
A rapid assessment by UNICEF and other UN and government agencies yesterday revealed that families also need temporary shelter, blankets and mats for sleeping, and child registration and counselling services.
"UNICEF and its partners will stay as long as needed to get these families and communities back on their feet", said Motcho.
"While our current focus is immediate needs, we'll soon be turning our attention to how communities can be better prepared and warned to reduce the risk of disasters, and prevent such a massive loss of life."
Donate to our Children's Emergency Fund
