Disaster response organizations are mobilizing aid in Bangladesh after Cyclone Sidr left millions homeless and killed more than 3,000 when the storm hit the country's western coast.

The cyclone hit the southern coast of Bangladesh on Nov. 15, 2007, leaving behind a trail of devastation in 22 districts in the south and southwestern coastal areas of the country. The coastal towns of Patuakhali, Barguna and Jhalakathi, with a combined population of 700,000, were inundated by a water surge 15 feet high triggered by the cyclone.

The full extent of the destruction and loss of life is not yet know. However, the cyclone was more violent then the one in April 1991. Extensive damage to houses, crops, school buildings, roads, ripping up trees and disrupting electricity and telecommunication systems have been reported.  

The unofficial death toll stands at  more than 3,000, though some aid agencies say as many as 15,000 have died. Hundreds of thousands of people, especially those living in coastal areas, were evacuated to safer places including near-by cyclone shelters. Many others had taken shelter in school buildings and other available facilities. Others are living under the open sky. 

Disaster response organizations worldwide were attempting to provide survivors with basic necessities, including water, rice, medicine and shelter.

Faith-based organizations – many under the umbrella of Action by Churches Together (ACT) International - were among the groups that have launched relief efforts throughout the country or were conducting assessments to determine how to respond.

Five ACT members - Christian Commission for Development Bangladesh, Social Health and Education Development Board, Lutheran Health Care Bangladesh, the Church of Bangladesh and Christian Aid – are coordinating efforts to provide emergency food, medical support and temporary shelter, the organization said.