Earlier this month, Typhoon Sinlaku tore through the Pacific, leaving a path of destruction from the outer atolls of Chuuk to its landfall in Saipan as a 150-mph superstorm. The region has since been grappling with the aftermath of torrential rain, flash flooding, and significant threats to public health.
Amidst this destruction, we’ve also been hearing stories of harrowing survival and incredible human spirit.
One contact in the region shared the story of a family who spent the height of the storm clinging to one another on a dining room table as floodwaters rushed through their home. Another described a woman returning to find her house literally split in half by the sheer force of the wind.
The message from our partners in in this region remains clear: “Our people remain resilient, and with partners like you, we will rebuild.”
Mobilizing Essential Supplies after Typhoon Sinlaku
In the wake of such a powerful storm, maintaining health and hydration is a primary concern. To address the immediate needs of those impacted by this powerful storm, we are coordinating the shipment of significant aid to our trusted partners on the ground:
- 9,600 hygiene kits and 14,100 sticks of DripDrop to the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation (CHCC). As the only hospital on Saipan, CHCC is a critical healthcare resource for the community, providing medical care while navigating island-wide power fluctuations.
- 6,000 hygiene kits and 6,000 sticks of DripDrop to BeHeartfelt, a partner we have worked with previously who will distribute these resources to families across Guam, Saipan, and Chuuk.
The Situation on the Ground
The damage to infrastructure has been significant. In the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), the CHCC is currently running on island power, though they have dealt with fluctuations in their backup generators.
In Guam, while healthcare facilities remain operational, flash flooding has created challenging conditions for residents. Both Guam and the CNMI have declared States of Emergency, which have been approved at the federal level, allowing FEMA to provide disaster assistance.
Monitoring Future Needs
We are actively participating in FEMA coordination calls and monitoring the recovery phase to ensure no partner is left without the help they need.
Your support allows us to get these critical supplies into the hands of those who need them most. Thank you for being part of this response.
