Bangladesh Super Cyclone Kills Thousands

A cyclone affected elderly man rests on a salvaged bed near a devastated house in Choto Taltoli village, on the southern coastal area of Bangladesh.

Tens of thousands of people in Bangladesh urgently need food and shelter after a super cyclone "Sidr" hit the country on November 15, 2007.

More than 3.1 million people in 28 southern districts have been directly affected by the cyclone.

The death toll from this cyclone is currently at 3,200, but according to government officials it could reach over 10,000 before the cleanup efforts are finished.

It is estimated that the massive loss and damage to crops will have immediate and long-term devastating effects on the country.

Thousands of Cyclone-affected Bangladeshis waiting for relief in Maithachomohoni village, on the southern coastal area of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh had already lost crops in northern and central areas after severe floods in July. It is feared that the combined impact of these two disasters on one of the world's poorest countries could be massive.

The cyclone has left a trail of death and destruction, damaging power and communications networks and killing livestock.

Early assessment shows that priority needs include food, clean water supply, diarrhea treatment and shelter assistance. The longer term perspective requires rehabilitation of livelihoods, infrastructure, health and educational services and increased shelter capacity.

Scientists have predicted that extreme weather events like this cyclone are going to become more common due to global warming. The world's poorest people - such as those living in Bangladesh - will be hit the hardest.

IslamiCity through it's parent organization HADI (Human Assistance & Development International) has established an Bangladesh Cyclone Fund. In cooperation with trusted NGO's on the field, this fund will provide assistance to the  survivors and respond to various humanitarian needs.

If you would like to donate for this project please click on the link below.