Tropical storm Urduja moves over Samar, Philippines

Tropical Storm Urduja hit the Visayas region of the Philippines in mid-December. The most affected areas were Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar and Biliran. These areas are particularly vulnerable to tropical storms and typhoons because of their proximity to the Pacific Ocean.

The damage caused by Tropical Storm Urduja

The tropical storm had maximum winds of 65 km/h and gusts of up to 90 km/h. Local weather updates reported that, in a 24-hour period, Guiuan on the island of Samar received nearly two months’ worth of rainfall in just one day. Urduja left thousands of passengers stranded at various ports and according to local reports, 4,327 families were evacuated. 

At least 26 people were killed and 23 reported missing

Tropical Storm Urduja also caused power cuts, but electricity has now been restored. Bridges and roads are currently being repaired.

Tropical Storm Urduja’s impact on Compassion projects

Eight of Compassion’s church partners were affected by Tropical Storm Urduja. 90 Compassion-supported children lost their homes and household supplies in the storm. Thanks to our emergency RESPOND Fund, Compassion field staff are providing affected families with support. They’re distributing emergency relief items including food and hygiene supplies. Some families were evacuated to emergency shelters at local churches but many have now returned home. 

How to pray for Tropical Storm Urduja

Join us in praying for the most vulnerable children and families impacted by the storm Urduja:

• Pray for those living in the worst affected areas of Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar and Biliran. Ask that those who have lost homes and livelihoods will be provided with the resources they need to recover.
• Pray for Compassion’s local church partners to provide vital support to their local communities during this difficult time.
• Lift up those who are grieving the loss of family and loved ones in the aftermath of the storm.