Super Typhoon Rai (locally named Odette) made landfall on 16 December 2021 in Surigao del Norte Province before crossing the central-southern Philippines, specifically the Visayas and Mindanao Islands, with maximum sustained winds of 195km/h and gustiness of 260km/h. Intensifying from a tropical storm to a super typhoon within hours, Rai brought torrential rains, violent winds, landslides and storm surges, making nine landfalls in seven provinces.
The entire province of Cebu has been placed under a state of calamity due to the damage caused by Super Typhoon Rai. Thousands of people have been displaced and the entire province is facing shortages of water, with several people reported to have died from dehydration. Almost all gas stations are closed or empty, with people waiting over 48 hours to get fuel. Power has been cut and early estimates say it won't be restored for at least 4-6 weeks.
The relief and recovery fund will initially prioritise getting clean water and food to communities hardest. The most urgent need is providing communities with access to essential goods and restoring access to clean drinking water. The fund will also support keeping children safe and protected as many are displaced or without adequate shelter. The recovery will focus on restoring access to learning, education and sustainable livelihood studies to ensure children are not being exploited.
Coming during the COVID-19 pandemic, Typhoon Rai has created an immediate humanitarian disaster for thousands of people across Cebu and the Philippines. The initial impact can see FundLife provide access to clean water for 30,000 people if we can secure sustainable clean water solutions to 8 key locations that allow local water stations to run and supply water.
