Cyclone in Philippines

The death toll has risen to more than 100 in Southern Philippines after Typhoon Bopha struck on Tuesday.

Local officials estimate over 200 lives have been lost in the typhoon. The majority of deaths were caused by flash floods, falling trees and collapsed buildings.

The typhoon hit vulnerable areas causing extensive damage to homes, crops and infrastructure despite early warnings and evacuations prior to the typhoon striking.

The worst affected areas are; Compostela Valley province, Andap Village, Davao and Mindanao. Many lives were lost in these areas, and structural damage has made it impossible to pass through these towns.

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.

Typhoon Bopha passed through Palau on Monday where fallen trees and power outages disrupted the Island. Government agencies had placed emergency crews, hospitals and the military on standby ahead of the storm. The Red Cross praised local authorities for relocating people from vulnerable areas and preparing evacuation centres.

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