The Salvadorean Red Cross Society (SRC)
continues to provide support in search and rescue, first aid, blood and
ambulance services and tracing. A total of 17,905 families in 43 communities
have received relief items distributed by the National Society including
blankets, kitchen sets, hygiene sets and plastic sheeting. 130 temporary
shelters have been established, currently accommodating an estimated 50,000
people made homeless by disaster. The government has requested the SRC
to take on a prominent role in the management of these shelters, coordinating
relief and health care. Damage to water supply infrastructure is major:
40% of the affected population has no access to clean drinking water or
sanitation. It is clear that medium and long term needs far exceed initial
expectations.
Latest events
The search for those trapped in mudslides continues, but hope of finding survivors is dwindling. Attention is now shifting to the immediate needs of the survivors, many of whom are without shelter, food, water and sanitation. The number of homeless families is now estimated at over 60,000, but there are fears that this number may increase significantly.
The scale of the impact becomes clearer as damage assessments are continuing. The death toll has risen considerably, reaching 681, and is expected to rise even further as many people are still missing. An estimated 66,170 houses have been damaged, of which 24,759 have been completely destroyed. A total of 130 temporary shelters have been set up, with over 10,000 persons in the Cafetal\'f3n macro-shelter alone.
More than 500 aftershocks have been registered, with at least 4 reaching a magnitude of more than 5.0 on the Richter scale. Some have caused further damage and many people are afraid to return to their houses, preferring to spend the night in the street instead. Some aftershocks have triggered new landslides, especially in the Tinalca area. Official figures on the impact of the disaster are summarised below:
- Dead: 601
- Injured: 2,115
- Evacuated: 45,857
- Houses damaged: 66,170 (destroyed: 24,759)
- Public buildings damaged: 271
- Shelters operational: 130 (estimated 50,000 people)
Health authorities have expressed concern about possible outbreaks of rota virus, which had led to a yellow alert in the week before the disaster struck. Massive campaigns with medical brigades visiting communities have been interrupted because of the earthquake.
There has been a great deal of structural damage to water supply networks and pumping stations. Danger of cross contamination is high (sewage mixing with drinking water), increasing the risks of outbreaks of diseases. An estimated 40% of the affected population has no access to drinking water or sanitary facilities at present.
The Ministry of Health reports that 1,300 hospital beds are not functioning, but it is expected that half of these will be available in three days. It has also confirmed that the country can cope with the hospital needs.
Red Cross/Red Crescent action
Salvadorean Red Cross Society / Federation
Although the hopes of finding survivors are diminishing by the hour, search and rescue efforts are expected to continue for another 3-4 days.
Ambulance services, the blood bank and Red Cross clinics continue to operate around the clock. Field assessments will provide more accurate information on morbidity, as well as on potential needs for drug supplies and medical equipment.
The SUMA supplies management system has been activated in order to track all goods received at various locations including the international airport. All incoming goods are classified and stored in central warehouses for onward distribution.
Needs assessments were concluded in 43 of the most affected communities. Results will form the basis for the plan of action for the next phase.
The National Society is providing assistance in the areas of search and rescue, ambulance services, first aid, health and care. Furthermore, the distribution of relief items to disaster victims has been stepped up over recent days. So far, a total of 17,905 families in 43 communities have received relief items including blankets, kitchen sets, hygiene sets and plastic sheeting.
Make your donation online now , or telephone the British Red Cross El Salvador Earthquake Appeal line on 08705 125 125.