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Philippines: responding to Typhoon Tembin

Natural hazards

An earthquake, tsunami, flood or cyclone can have a devastating impact on entire communities.

Within a matter of minutes, natural hazards can affect the lives of tens of thousands of people. Hundreds or even thousands of people can be injured, homes and livelihoods destroyed. Access to clean water, healthcare services and transport can also be disrupted. The impact of each event varies greatly and our response must adapt to each situation.

Needs must be quickly identified, but accessing a disaster zone can be complex when roads are cut off. The first responders are people already on-site: community members, local authorities and aid organisations already present.

We keep pre-packaged kits to deploy for rapid relief and life-saving assistance. With projects in over 70 countries, we often have aid workers nearby when a disaster strikes. They can be reinforced with additional teams if a larger response is needed.

 
Response to flooding in Southern Africa - Malawi
Cyclone Idai & Southern Africa flooding

Malawi: “This time, the flooding has destroyed houses, not lives”

Voices from the Field 29 Mar 2019
 
India

MSF at the India earthquake - 2001

Project Update 18 Mar 2001
 
El Salvador

MSF at the El Salvador earthquake - 2001

Project Update 21 Feb 2001
 
India

Tonnage brought to India represents largest 'fly-in' response by MSF

Project Update 19 Feb 2001
 
El Salvador

Second major earthquake strikes El Salvador

Project Update 13 Feb 2001
 
India

MSF develops local counsellors for mental health programme

Project Update 12 Feb 2001
 
Natural hazards

Chosen at random, MSF has visited six villages near Bhuj to consider the medical and relief needs of the area.

Project Update 5 Feb 2001
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13 June 2018