Asia and the Pacific: Weekly Regional Humanitarian Snapshot (5 - 11 November 2024)

PHILIPPINES

On 11 November, 8:10 am local time, Typhoon Toraji (local name Nika) made landfall in Dilasag, Aurora, northern Luzon, Philippines, triggering Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4 warning (118 to 184 km/h) across 10 regions in northern Luzon. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued warnings for intense to torrential rainfall, a high risk of storm surge, and potential infrastructure damage along coastal regions. Local authorities have evacuated vulnerable populations, particularly in coastal and dam areas, where precautionary water releases have taken place. This marks the fourth tropical cyclone in four weeks and the third impacting northern Luzon. Over 617,400 people remain displaced, with 458,000 sheltering outside evacuation centres. Communities are facing significant challenges in transitioning to early recovery, with ongoing needs for debris cleanup, shelter, WASH and food security. Typhoon Toraji is expected to exit the Philippines Area of Responsibility by 12 November.

INDONESIA

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, situated in East Flores Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, erupted on 3 November, emitting volcanic material, including fire stones that severely impacted residential areas within a 6-kilometre radius. Media reports indicate 10 fatalities, dozens of injuries and the destruction of buildings, impacting 2,734 households (10,295 people) who are now residing in temporary shelters. Local authorities have enforced a 7-kilometre exclusion zone, advising heightened vigilance for potential rain-induced lava floods, particularly in the areas of Dulipali, Nobo villages and Padang Pasir. On 3 November, the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG) escalated the alert to level IV, the highest level. In response, the East Flores District Government declared an emergency status effective until 31 December 2024 and initiated a rapid assessment. Government agencies, in collaboration with local humanitarian organizations, are coordinating to deliver relief assistance, including health services, food, shelter, sanitation and child welfare support to affected communities.