Super Typhoon in Southern Philippines

Super Typhoon Bopha struck the Philippine Island of Mindanao on Tuesday. Heavy rainfall and wind speeds of up to 210 kph forced thousands of people to be evacuated.

Since the typhoon struck, the death toll has risen to 270. The majority of deaths were caused by flash floods, falling trees and collapsed buildings. Despite earlier evacuations and preparation for the arrival of the storm, tens and thousands of people are left homeless; several others are missing whilst the death toll steadily increases.

The typhoon covered an area of 600 kilometres across the Philippines. The worst affected areas are; Compostela Valley province, Andap Village, Davao and Mindanao. 156 lives were lost in these areas, and structural damage has made it impossible to pass through these towns.

At least 66 people have died in the Andap village Valley. The victims included local villagers and soldiers who had been swept away by gushing waters in a local village hall.

Heavy flooding has increased the risk of landslides, and in many areas people are experiencing power cuts and travel disruption. 245 refugees in New Bataan town are missing after flood waters engulfed local residents and are believed to be buried under mud slides.

Rescuers are working in the affected areas, trying to save as many lives as possible. Many people are stuck in mud sustaining wound and limb injuries. Victims are being treated in hospitals and evacuation centres.

5,000 travellers remain stranded after the authorities suspended domestic flights and ferry services across the country. Schools and businesses also remain closed.

The Philippines experiences typhoons and tropical storms throughout the year. Last December Typhoon Washi struck Southern parts of the Philippines, although a weaker storm in comparison to Bopha, its torrential rains and flash floods killed more than 1,300 people and thousands were left homeless, thus prompting a humanitarian crisis.

-

View the SERTIT Rapid Mapping webpage for this event