Singapore, 12 September 2024 — In response to the devastating impact of Tropical Cyclone Yagi and the Southwest Monsoon on communities in Southeast Asia, particularly in Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR), Thailand, the Philippines and Viet Nam, the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) has launched a public fundraising appeal to support relief and recovery operations in these affected countries.

Humanitarian Aid for Viet Nam

The SRC will contribute SGD 50,000 to support on-going humanitarian efforts by the Viet Nam Red Cross (VNRC), following Tropical Cyclone Yagi. A response team from SRC will be deployed to Viet Nam to assist with relief operations, as well as to conduct needs assessment for the affected communities. 

As of 10 September, the cyclone has caused widespread power outages and communication disruptions across at least five provinces, affecting 3 million people, with 400,000 households experiencing water shortages. The cyclone caused at least 65 fatalities, 39 people reported missing, and more than 750 people injured.

Mr Benjamin William, Secretary General and CEO of Singapore Red Cross, said, “In times of crisis, solidarity is our greatest strength. Tropical Cyclone Yagi has caused much devastation and heartbreak for many communities in Viet Nam. We are in close contact with our sister National Society, Viet Nam Red Cross, to support its ongoing relief efforts and to explore what else we can do to support the affected families and communities. 

Beyond Viet Nam, the combined effect of Tropical Cyclone Yagi and the Southwest Monsoon have severely impacted communities across Southeast Asia. Our contributions alongside the collaborative work with our sister National Societies, are focused on helping the most vulnerable amongst the affected communities. The Singapore Red Cross will continue to work closely with them and provide assistance where it is needed most, so that the affected communities are supported during these challenging times.”

Mission Deployment to Lao PDR

The latest contribution for relief efforts in Viet Nam follows an earlier contribution of SGD 50,000 on 29 August 2024, to support the emergency operations by Lao Red Cross (LRC), aimed at providing essential assistance and relief to the communities affected by the Southwest Monsoon. Unfortunately, the situation in Lao PDR has worsened, with Tropical Cyclone Yagi further impacting the region. SRC is deploying a three-person team next week to provide crucial support in the country’s ongoing relief operations. 

Since the end of August, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, the Philippines and Viet Nam have faced significant challenges due to the combined effects of Tropical Cyclone Yagi and the Southwest Monsoon. On 1 September, a Low Pressure Area (LPA) in the Philippines Area of Responsibility (PAR) developed into Tropical Cyclone Yagi, which intensified the Southwest Monsoon and further brought heavy to torrential rainfall across various Southeast Asian countries. Approximately 4 million people have been affected in Southeast Asia, with damage and needs assessment still ongoing. 

Red Cross Societies in affected countries have been actively responding by:

• Distributing relief kits such as hygiene and household kits
• Distributing food and hot meals
• Setting up first aid stations and child friendly spaces
• Providing livelihood assistance
• Reinforcing homes for vulnerable residents
• Initiating the cleanup of debris
• Promoting health and hygiene practices to the communities

SRC continues to work closely with our sister National Societies in the region to monitor and assess the evolving situation, and to assist with the humanitarian efforts to mitigate effects of these climate emergencies.

Images via Myanmar Red Cross