ReliefWeb

The International Federation's Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) is a source of un-earmarked money created by the Federation in 1985 to ensure that immediate financial support is available for Red Cross and Red Crescent response to emergencies. The DREF is a vital part of the International Federation's disaster response system and increases the ability of national societies to respond to disasters.

CHF 302,500 (USD 295,278 or EUR 204,990) has been allocated from the International Federation's Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) to support the National Society in delivering immediate assistance to some 2,200 families. Unearmarked funds to repay DREF are encouraged.

Summary: Due to the rainfall in recent days, accompanied with the melting of snow in the northern area of Albania, the Drini river flows have been increasing, which has consequently increased the water levels in three hydroelectric power lakes. The authorities were obliged to release water from the lakes, which, together with heavy rainfalls, caused flooding in the prefectures of Shkodra and Lezha affecting more than 2,200 families. Some 3,572 persons have been evacuated.

To address the situation, the Red Cross Society of Albania with support from the International Federation will assist 2,200 families with basic food and non-food items.

This operation is expected to be implemented over three months, and will therefore be completed by 11 April, 2010; a Final Report will be made available three months after the end of the operation (by 11 July, 2010).