The Havoc brought by Yolanda

After witnessing the aftermath caused by the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Bohol and in some areas in Cebu, people again are getting their fingers crossed to the next threat that will cause a massive destruction particularly in the parts of Eastern Visayas. This time nature said it will be a supertyphoon in the name of Yolanda or Haiyan. Well, I really don’t have any idea how destructive this typhoon will be until such time I was able to see it with my own eyes how it destroyed tremendously the entire Eastern Visayas and the Northern part of Cebu.

Two days prior to the landfall of Yolanda, the whole nation prepared for its coming that even classes and those who have work are already suspended. It was all throughout prepared when that day came, at around 9:00 o’clock in the morning, the threatening ominous clouds showed up, wind is starting to rage its fury causing the trees to sway and bend as well as the rain pouring heavily till our place flooded. As announced, brownout and water shortage occurred causing us to save as much as we could till next day comes.

As the typhoon continuously savaged the place we’re living, I realized that this one is different. As our house combatted against the strong winds and the huge raindrops causing loudness hitting roofs, I just remembered what I saw on a weather forecast. Truly, it  was a supertyphoon with a maximum category-five storm with gusts of up to 235 mph. Furthermore, It is said to pass through Northern Cebu Area to Eastern Visayas. To think of how strong the wind this was that made the whole town of Tacloban devastated as storm surge of about 4m flushed away all the properties and establishments they have. The storm displayed some characteristics of an annular tropical cyclone.

Although natural disasters are hard to mitigate, all I can say is that preparations are necessary. I just can’t imagine the havoc Yolanda had brought to the country especially for those people who have lost a loved one. Casualties have increased its toll to the extent that some are still missing. I was even horrified that throughout Tacloban City, widespread looting took place in the days following Haiyan's passage and in some instances, relief trucks were even attacked and had food stolen in the city.

Many typhoons have tested our preparedness but still, we are helpless. Many have also pledged to help the country but I wonder where did it go or were the victims of this tragedy benefited to all of those. I think there’s more to tell about this drastic scenario but what I’m being concern is the security of the people and their health to safeguard from illnesses and diseases. I know there are stronger than Yolanda so we should be alert and equipped anytime. Having faith and strength to withstand all these calamities are the key to keep us safe and hold on to whatever obstacles may arrive for the future.