Humanitarian Health Action

Addressing health challenges in the aftermath of Typhoon Pablo

28 December 2012. Typhoon Pablo is one of the most destructive typhoons that hit the Philippines in 2012. The widespread damage to affected areas is considered the most devastating for a region that has never been affected by such extreme disaster in many years. The typhoon also hit a vulnerable population that lives in remote areas affected by armed conflict and civil unrest.

Response to the crisis caused by Typhoon Bopha

J. Gutierrez/IRIN

Typhoon Bopha (locally referred to as “Pablo”) struck the Philippines in eastern Mindanao on 4 December. The typhoon caused heavy rains and flooding affecting 5 412 140 people in 287 cities and municipalities. As of 11 December, there were 714 deaths, 1906 injuries and 890 missing people, mainly in Compostela Valley province. WHO is supporting health authorities and health partners to coordinate the response to the affected population. An estimated US$ 750 000 is urgently needed for the initial response phase.