Philippines braces impact of a potential typhoon during Christmas season

December 14, 2021 — A potential typhoon with international name Rai is threatening the central part of the Philippines. It is expected to enter the country’s area of responsibility within 24 hours.

Rai, which is still in Severe Tropical Storm status, is packing a strength of 95km/h near the center and gustiness up to 115km/h.

According to the Philippine Atmoshperic, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the storm may make landfall in the vicinity of CARAGA (Eastern Mindanao) or Eastern Visayas by Deember 16, Thursday. It is also expected to intensify as it nears landfall.

“World Vision is closely monitoring the status of the weather disturbance and the situation in our assister communities. Let us pray that this storm will not further gain strength and affect our holiday season,” Ajab-Aram Macapagat, World Vision’s Director of Humanitarian and Emergency affairs (HEA) in the Philippines. World Vision currently works with vulnerable families in many provinces in Visayas and Mindanao, assisting over 33,000 children though its development programs.

Meanwhile, the government is leading the preparations for the possible aftermath of Rai. Local disaster risk reduction and management councils of areas likely to be hit are already on alert.

World Vision also has preposition relief items that are ready to be mobilized as needed. The organization is also coordinating with local government units as families prepare for possible impact.