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AID workers for Plan International are on stand-by as a super cyclone heads for the Southern Indian coast.
Category five Cyclone Phailin is expected to make landfall tomorrow (Sat) evening with winds of up to 115mph.
Government departments have been put on high alert and fishermen warned to stay on land until the storm passes.
Humanitarian teams for Plan are in contact with partners, ready to intervene to help families affected.
“Children are particularly vulnerable during emergencies and their specific needs must be considered by the humanitarian community,” says Plan’s emergency response manager, Murali Kunduru.
“Child protection must be the prime concern of the government, relief agencies and parents.”
Families directly in the path of the storm have been evacuated to safe areas by government agencies.
District heads have been asked to stockpile food, medicine and other aid in case needed.
“Plan is working in coordination with the government and other humanitarian actors to meet the food, shelter, water, protection and education needs of thos affected,” says Mr Kunduru.
For more information on Plan’s work or to make a donation call 0800 526 848 or visit www.plan-uk.org