Killer Typhoon: The Aftermath of Cyclone Haiyan

Gr 6–12—On November 8, 2013, the largest typhoon ever to make landfall hit the Philippine Islands, causing more than 7,000 deaths and $8 billion in damages. This super typhoon had winds of up to 200 miles per hour, and a resulting and unexpected storm surge of more than 20 feet. This NOVA presentation aired barely three months after this ravaging event, and employs film footage from before, during, and after the storm. The video footage, graphics, and commentary are up the high standards of the series. Interviews with local people focus on the lack of preparedness and the resulting devastation. The usual talking-head commentary, in this case by meteorologists specializing in Pacific area storms, offers valuable background information as to the formation and power of such Pacific hurricanes. The impact of climate change is discussed, as well as the possible effect on highly populated American coastlines. The tone of the narration is often alarmist and somewhat shrill. However, upon viewing the results of unpreparedness in the Philippines, that alarm is warranted. Useful for classroom discussions of global warming, weather, and the power of nature.—Eva Elisabeth Von Ancken, formerly at Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY