Typhoons, cyclones, earthquakes… sadly, they happen all too often. This unit is about disasters and how people survive them. In this session, we help you learn the language you need to talk about these events
Typhoon Haiyan was one of the most destructive storms in history.
The statistics speak for themselves. It killed over 6,000 people, six million workers lost their sources of income and 30,000 boats were destroyed. In total, around 15 million people were affected. In many towns and cities over 90% of buildings were ruined, forcing many to live in shelters.
The storm struck on 8 November 2013. It was the most powerful ever to hit land, with heavy rain, winds of over 170 mph and sea levels rising by up to seven metres. At present the Philippines sees around 20 typhoons a year. The IPCC believes that climate change will mean an increase in cyclones, leaving even more people in the region at risk.
The scale of the tragedy also triggered a huge humanitarian response. Charities and aid agencies around the world raised money and delivered aid to populations affected, and volunteers from around the world offered their skills and assistance. Many people were critical of the pace of the Filipino government’s efforts to rebuild communities, though officials said they responded well to their country’s biggest ever logistical challenge.
natural disasters
Typhoon Haiyan was one of the most destructive storms in history.
typhoon
a very strong wind which moves in a circle in the Western Pacific Ocean
disasters
events that cause a lot of harm
tragedy
a very sad event
destructive
causing a lot of damage
shelters
places which give protection
struck
hit
mph
miles per hour (speed)
cyclones
very strong winds which move in circles
at risk
in danger (of)
triggered
caused
humanitarian
relating to improving human lives and reducing suffering
charities
organisations people give money to so they can help others
aid agencies
organisations that provide money and help to those suffering
populations
(here) groups of people in a particular situation
volunteers
people who give their time for free
logistical
relating to the careful organisation of things and people to achieve a difficult task
to cope with the situation