Emergency aid for the victims of the Taifuns Yagi in Southeast Asia
On September 7, the Taifun Yagi devastated many countries in Southeast Asia, including in Thailand and Myanmar. The typhoon is one of the strongest storms of the past 30 years.
Myanmar is particularly difficult. 59 municipalities were flooded, many of these areas are still under water. An estimated more than 630,000 people are affected by the floods, hundreds of fatalities can be complained about, many people are considered missing. For those in Myanmar, who are already suffering from bombing and armed fights as a result of the military coup in the country, this is a severe stroke of fate. Large parts of the infrastructure have been destroyed: houses, schools, water pipes, and also the communication networks, which makes it difficult to coordinate the auxiliary measures. In Thailand, the typhoon triggered fall floods and landslides, especially in the north of the country. More than 50,000 households are affected, especially in the province of Mae Hong Son along the Salween River. Many residents were surprised and had to leave their belongings and cattle back. The current situation for children is particularly difficult. Many are threatened by diseases and malnutrition and require food and hygiene items.
Above all, there is no clean drinking water because the water from many fountains and rivers is no longer edible. There is also a lack of food and medical care. Petrol as well as emergency accommodation and clothing are also urgently needed. In addition, building materials are missing to quickly repair buildings such as residential buildings or schools.
Emergency aid measures have started
Terre des Hommes is supporting the relief efforts through several local partner organizations. In Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, Thailand, we are supporting the reconstruction of homes and schools by distributing food packages containing rice, oil, beans, and salt. In Mae Hong Son, TDH is helping people repair their homes and farmland, and is also distributing school supplies and food. In Myanmar, the most affected families are receiving food packages and hygiene items such as soap, detergents, and disinfectants.