Thousands of people are displaced and eight dead after Typhoon Noru slammed into the north of the Philippines late on Sunday, reaching wind speeds of 170 km/h.

The severe storm caused widespread flooding, power outages, and uprooted trees across Manila and surrounding regions, forcing at least 75,000 people from their homes to seek shelter. It is not yet known the extent of the damage, but Typhoon Noru is the strongest storm to hit the Philippines so far this year.  

Caritas Australia’s long-term partner, Caritas Philippines, is currently assessing needs on the ground. They are working with church networks to coordinate emergency food packs, shelter materials and wash kits with jerry cans and hygiene items for impacted communities.   

“It is getting harder to respond to these extreme weather events in the Philippines as they are getting stronger and more damaging,” said Koreen Cueto, Caritas Australia’s Program Coordinator for the Philippines.  

“We know already that there has been damage to key infrastructure, including roads, schools and power lines. The damage to rice and coconut crops in Quezon province is also a concern – many communities rely heavily on agriculture for their incomes and will now face the double cost of rebuilding their homes and their livelihoods.” 

“We’re especially worried about the immediate impact of this typhoon on the most vulnerable, particularly women, children and the elderly. The ongoing climate crisis and COVID-19 have really taken a toll on these groups.”

Caritas Philippines is working in coordination with the government and the church network to respond to affected communities.  

To donate to Caritas Australia’s Philippines Emergency Appeal Donations visit caritas.org.au/donate/emergency-appeals/philippines/ or call 1800 024 413 toll free. 

Media contact: Jessica Stone / jessica.stone@caritas.org.au