Local officials in the Philippines say at least fifty-six people are missing and at least 500 others are injured. In addition, half a million people have been forced to abandon their homes. Typhoon Rai has sent nearly 400,000 people running for safety. According to reports of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), with winds of about 195k/h (120 mph), the typhoon has hit the south-eastern end of the country. Rescue teams have described the scenes as “complete carnage”. However, so far there is no means of establishing the scale of losses as communication has been cut off in many of the country’s affected regions. Richard Gordon of the Philippines Red Cross told BBC officials, “Many areas have no power, no communications, very little water”. Russia expels two German diplomats in a tit-for-tat move Omicron spreading faster and evading vaccines: WHO No spectators allowed for the forthcoming matches between South Africa and India According to reports, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has launched an emergency appeal seeking funds for long-term relief efforts. Mr. Gordon informed BBC, that some parts look as if they have been bombed, “Homes, hospitals, school and community buildings have been ripped to shreds.” … Continue reading Philippines Typhoon: Death toll rises to 375