On the 20th of May, Cyclone Amphan – one of the most powerful storms ever recorded in the Bay of Bengal – closed in on India and Bangladesh. A second disaster for families already facing COVID-19.
As the cyclone destroyed houses and communities, millions of people had to flee their homes and seek safety in shelters. So far, at least 108 people, including children, have lost their lives.
The damage has devastated communities that are already dealing with the Coronavirus outbreak. In some of the worst affected areas there was a tidal surge of nearly three meters, causing dams to overflow and submerging low-lying villages and crops. Now families living in these areas have reduced access to safe water to drink and wash their hands with. The destruction of crops and livestock will make it even harder for families to put food on the table for their children. Schools have also been badly affected, at a time when it’s crucial children can return to classes as soon as it’s safe.
Photo credit: Save the Children
Save the Children’s Emergency Fund has allocated £60,000 to help children and their families affected by the cyclone. Children’s access to safe clean water has never been more vital during the Coronavirus outbreak. Castle Water’s support of Save the Children’s Emergency Fund means that they can respond flexibly and quickly to urgent, fast-developing or forgotten emergencies such as Cyclone Amphan. We would like to thank all Castle Water customers and employees for your support. It couldn’t be more important to reach children caught up in emergencies in these especially challenging times.
How Save the Children’s Emergency Fund is supporting children and their families in the aftermath of Cyclone Amphan:
- Water, sanitation and hygiene facilities, and medical support for the possible outbreak of waterborne diseases and spread of COVID-19.
- Food, housing reconstruction and support for those who’ve lost their livelihoods.
- Reuniting children and families.
- Education and protection support for children.
Click here to donate to Save the Children's Coronavirus Emergency Appeal