Rachel Locke
Staff Writer
Approximately one month ago, a massive typhoon swarmed through the Philippine Islands. This superstorm, also known as Typhoon Haiyan, caused the fatalities of nearly 6,000 people. There are close to 1,500 still missing from this catastrophe, according to a study by the Philippine government released on Dec. 8.
According to CNN.com, Typhoon Haiyan was one of the strongest storms that has ever hit in history. On Nov. 8, 2013, nearly 25 million people were in the typhoon’s path. There were tremendously powerful winds, with the maximum wind gusts reaching as high as 235 mph. This category five hurricane stormed through the country and caused many to flee to evacuate. As Philippines president Benigno S. Aquino III stated in his address, the nation was involved in such a “calamity.” Roads were closed due to fallen trees and people were urged to stay where they were. Many people left for shelter at set evacuation centers, where tens of thousands of civilians stayed for days. The most unfortunate part about this superstorm was not only all the fatalities, but the thousands of homes that were damaged in the storm’s path. When many homeowners and their families came back to their home many days after the storm, they came back to absolutely nothing. That was one of the most devastating parts of it all.
After being the topic of conversation in many other countries not affected by the typhoon, many people decided that there should be a way for other nations to help. The United Nations donated $25 million in an effort to provide food assistance and and basic shelter and necessities. From the United States, an aircraft carrier, USS George Washington, was sent to sail to the Philippine Islands to provide extra assistance to those in need. Along with the carrier, the U.S. also shipped $20 million in immediate aid to use for basic needs. Many other nations, such as Japan, China, Canada, and the United Kingdom have donated dollars and personnel to assist people. Individual families and certain organizations in these countries have collected and shipped supplies to the Philippines. The relief efforts from many countries is certainly put to good use.
There is still hope for the Philippine Islands and their recovery. There are many ways in which one can help. The Philippines are still in need of temporary shelter in the form of tents. Donations are being collected by a wide variety of organizations, such as the American Red Cross and UNICEF. Please help to support these islands in their time of need.
