Children in Vietnam hit by second devastating typhoon in five weeks

A tropical cyclone is again battering Vietnam this week - at least 90 people have so far been killed in floods resulting from Typhoon Mirinae.

The second typhoon comes just five weeks after the deadly Typhoon Ketsana swept through the country at the end of September killing 163 people.

Typhoon Mirinae hit seven provinces in the south-central region of Vietnam including Quang Ngai, which was also badly affected by Ketsana. The second storm has damaged 15,000 families’ homes and 43,000 homes have been flooded. Thousands of the poorest families have lost their crops or fishing equipment, devastating their means of earning a living.

Heavy rains are causing misery for families who have been unable to recover in the short period since the last typhoon. Many children from poor families already face the risk of disease and malnourishment - exposure to the cold and wet will make them increasingly vulnerable. Still recovering from the trauma of the first storm, children are frightened and overwhelmed.

Michelle Brown, who is leading Save the Children’s response in Vietnam, said: “Vietnam is already reeling after being struck by one of the worst typhoons in living memory just five weeks ago, with children the worst affected.

“The storm will not only hinder efforts to get urgently needed relief to those affected by Typhoon Ketsana, it will set back communities trying to get back on their feet. Children are really suffering and need help.”

Teams from Save the Children are already assessing the needs of those who have been affected by Typhoon Mirinae and will be looking to respond in Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa province. Save the Children is continuing to provide vital aid to thousands of families affected by Typhoon Ketsana by providing money to help families get back to work.

More information

Please contact Kathyrn Rawe, Media Manager, Save the Children UK in Vietnam +44-7879-430788, or contact the media team on 24 hour press line: 07831 650 409