10 Apr 2015

FSM hoping for relief supplies from private sector

4:49 am on 10 April 2015

The cyclone ravaged communities of Yap and Chuuk in the Federated States of Micronesia are waiting expectantly for the arrival of commercial cargo supplies this weekend to bolster relief aid already being distributed to communities.

The FSM Office of Environment and Emergency Management says it is supporting the two affected states with food, water and shelter from Pohnpei while waiting for shipments to arrive.

Damage caused by Typhoon Maysak in Ulithi, Yap, Federated States of Micronesia

Damage caused by Typhoon Maysak in Ulithi, Yap, Federated States of Micronesia Photo: Brad Holland / FSM Office of Environment and Emergency Management

Its director, Andrew Yatilman, says local shops are running out of supplies that people can buy to supplement relief efforts and he is hoping commercial shipments expected to arrive over the weekend or early next week will help feed people.

"Where they need our help, the national government, so that is where we are also coming in to cover whatever gaps that may exist. So we are doing the best that we can at the moment."

Weno in Chuuk, FSM, suffers damage in Typhoon Maysak

Weno in Chuuk, FSM, suffers damage in Typhoon Maysak Photo: AFP

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs