ReliefWeb

PHILIPPINES

Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda): More than two months after Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines, shelter continues to be a major concern. Priorities are now shifting towards self-recovery support; that is, providing families with tools, building materials and the know-how to repair their homes. However, efforts have been hampered by a severe funding shortage. Current funding levels allow for the distribution of self-recovery shelter kits for 175,000 people but this is less than 3 per cent of the target.

Source: OCHA Sit Rep No. 31

Bohol Earthquake: Nearly three months after a devastating earthquake struck the island of Bohol, response efforts have largely shifted to early recovery and livelihoods. It is estimated that over 76,000 houses were damaged, with 15 per cent of them fully destroyed. The current Bohol Earthquake Action Plan (BEAP) has received only 27.4 per cent of the US$46 million requested.

Source: OCHA Sit Rep No. 10

TONGA

Tropical Cyclone Ian (Category 4) passed directly through the Ha’apai islands on January 11. The National Emergency Management Office reported extensive devastation in the eastern islands, with one confirmed death. Initial damage assessments suggest an estimated 70 per cent of homes either damaged or destroyed. Around 2,000 people are currently in 11 evacuation centres. The restoration of power and communication is a key priority, in addition to emergency shelter, water, sanitation and food. The Government of Tonga continues to manage the response and has so far not requested international assistance.

Source: OCHA Sit Rep No. 1

INDONESIA

Mount Sinabung on western Sumatra Island erupted on 7 January spewing lava and ash, forcing the evacuation of over 22,145 people from the area. In response, the government has extended a state of emergency from 5-18 January. Relief aid, services of government institutions/non-governmental agencies and private donations have been coordinated at the district level. Military, police and volunteers of Palang Merah Indonesia (PMI) continue to provide backup support for evacuation and supply of services to the evacuees.

Source: ECHO, BNPB, AP

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

The Eastern Calvados chain of islands continue to suffer from prolonged drought according to local government reports. The drought was triggered by the onset of an unusually long and dry season nearly three months ago. Affected islands include Kimuta, Kwanak, and Bruka. Food stocks are now depleted in some areas with people asking for assistance from local authorities. OCHA is communicating with the National Disaster Committee and Provincial Disaster Committee for more information on the number of people affected and possible cases of malnutrition among children.

Source: OCHA PNG

FIJI

Over 2000 people have been affected by an outbreak of dengue in Fiji's capital Suva. Since November 2013, 700 cases have been confirmed. Health experts warn this particular strain may spread in the coming months, affecting thousands of others. This is the same strain which affected the Solomon Islands mid last year resulting in 8 deaths and over 10,000 suspected cases.

Source: OCHA ROP