Today's photo of the day shows the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Evan. Evan made landfall in Samoa on December 13 as a category 3 tropical storm. Apia, which is the capital of Samoa, suffered from extensive flooding as well as widespread structural damage, including 18 schools affected. Assessments show that 1,500 houses have been damaged or completely destroyed and over 7,000 people are now staying in evacuation centres. The Samoa Red Cross Society is managing ten evacuation centres where volunteers are distributing relief items. Needs that are being addressed include clothing, food, clean water and installation of sanitation facilities.
Cyclone Evan also hit Fiji earlier this week, passing through Lautoka and Nadi, two of the most populated cities in Fiji. As soon as the cyclone passed, Fiji Red Cross mobilized its emergency response teams to carry out initial assessments and distributions of relief supplies.
Visit the IFRC's website to read more about Tropical Cyclone Evan.