On Saturday, September 26, Typhoon Ondoy struck the Philippines with the heaviest rainfall recorded, followed by the worst flooding in 40 years. As of reports today, there are at least 246 dead or missing, and 1.93 million victims who are homeless, injured or who have lost all of their belongings. At least 1 million people are without electricity, and scenes in the Philippines are eerily similar to Hurricane Katrina and President Bush's 2005 response (or lack thereof).

"This has had a significant impact on the families of some of our members, including Ramon Alcantara, whose family has lost many of their possessions, and almost lost Ramon's son," says SEIU Local 1000 president Yvonne Walker in a message on the Local's website.

Help for Typhoon Ondoy Victims in the Philippines: According to Red Cross Chief Richard Gordon, thousands are suffering from illnesses or injuries caused by the evacuation, including fungal diseases caused by unclean water when people escaped the floors. "There is medicine, but it is not enough, we need more and we are pleading to the international community to come to our aid," he said. Google has compiled a very helpful list of emergency numbers and groups in the Philippines who are accepting donations, as well as an interactive map dedicated to impact areas, displayed below.

View Typhoon Ondoy Situation Map for Metro Manila in a larger map

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ramon's family and all of the victims' families affected by the devastation wrought by Typhoon Ondoy. More ways you can help with disaster relief after the break.