Damage assessments were underway in the Philippines and Hong Kong following Super Typhoon Mangkhut, the category 5 storm that hit Asia over the weekend, according to Newsroom.
The typhoon, known as Typhoon Ompong in the Philippines, packed destructive winds and torrential rain as it cut across northern Luzon. Dozens of people lost their lives after heavy rains triggered landslides. Thirty-eight Latter-day Saint chapels in the affected areas of the Philippines sheltered more than 2,000 members and friends of the Church during the typhoon.
In Hong Kong, members and more than 100 missionaries have been working to help clean debris in the community. High winds smashed windows in the city, tearing off parts of buildings and roofs, while the storm surge flooded hotels and restaurants. Eight meetinghouses received minor flooding along with landscape damage. The Hong Kong China Temple received minor landscape damage but has reopened.
The situation is being assessed to determine exactly how the Church will assist with goods and services in partnership with other relief organizations. So far, blankets, food kits, sleeping pads and medicine are being supplied in the Philippines.
The typhoon has been downgraded to a tropical depression as it makes its way across southern China.
