UN launches major appeal for typhoon victims as quake hits Philippines

The United Nations is to launch an urgent aid appeal to help the Philippines recover from the ravages of Typhoon Haiyan.

Meanwhile, in the last hour an earthquake measuring 4.8-magnitude has struck the devastated Philippine islands

Officials say the scale of devastation from the typhoon is so far-reaching that a major emergency effort is needed.

The US Geological survey said the quake struck the San Isidro area.

The Red Cross has described the devastation as "absolute bedlam" - as hundreds of thousands of people find themselves homeless and displaced.

The relief operation has so far been focused on the city of Tacloban where upwards of 10,000 people have died.

People are queuing at the wrecked airport there in an effort to get out.

Gareth Crawford of Plan Ireland says there are fears for the millions of children who have been left destitute.

Here at home a book of condolences will open at Dublin Mansion House today for the victims of the super storm.