Cyclone Sidr has left thousands dead and affected millions in the southwest region of  Bangladesh around the capital Dhaka. The storm hit Thursday morning, November 15th, with winds exceeding 135 mph and tidal waves of 15 feet. Active disaster preparedness efforts and evacuation has minimized causalities, but Sidr is the most powerful and devastating storm to strike densely populated Bangladesh in 16 years.

The American Red Cross is providing an initial contribution of  $100,000 to the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society to support emergency operations.

We are currently accepting financial contributions in support of the emergency operations in Bangladesh.

Contributions may be sent to American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013, or call 1-800-HELP NOW. The Red Cross honors donor intent. Be sure to specify the following fund at the time of your donation: AP 2017 Bangladesh Relief & Development.

You can help those affected by Cyclone Sidr and countless crises around the world each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support through supplies, technical assistance, and other support to help those in need. Please call 1-800-RED CROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the International Response Fund may be made online at www.nyredcross.org/donations or sent to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.