Death toll from Philippines typhoon climbs to over 400

By Sumeyye Dilara Dincer

ANKARA (AA) – The death toll from a typhoon in the Philippines has climbed to 405 on Friday, according to local reports.

Typhoon-related deaths were mostly due to drowning, fallen trees, and landslides, according to Ricardo Jalad, chief of the national disaster agency, cited by Channel News Asia.

About 82 people were missing and 1,147 injured due to Typhoon Rai which also damaged more than 530,000 houses, and affected nearly 4.5 million people, he added.

It is reportedly the 15th and the deadliest typhoon that hit the Philippines this year.

The typhoon brought disaster in many areas of the country where besides deaths and injuries, roads were broken up, electricity is off after poles were plucked out as the typhoon ravaged through townships.

Philippines military soldiers were dispatched to support search and rescue efforts.

The super typhoon, which reached a speed of 195 kilometers (121 miles) per hour, caused power outages and serious destruction in the southeastern islands.

The devastation brought by the typhoon drew aid from many countries including China, the US, and international agencies, including from the UN.

Meanwhile, the Istanbul-based Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) launched emergency relief works in the region affected by Typhoon Rai.

* Writing and contribution by Iclal Turan in Istanbul