Venezuela Floods Alert
The Disaster
Over the last few days intense rain has fallen in Venezuela, causing flooding and landslides in the Federal District as well as in the States of Miranda, Vargas, Nueva Esparta (the Island of Margarita), Yaracuy, Falcon, Carabobo, Zulia and Tachira. Initial reports indicate many deaths, but at this point the figure is not known. Over 112,000 people are estimated to be directly affected. Over 22,000 homes have been damaged, of which over 1,000 are reported to be destroyed. With the rainfall expected to continue, the Government of Venezuela has declared a state of emergency.
Over the last few days intense rain has fallen in Venezuela, causing flooding and landslides in the Federal District as well as in the States of Miranda, Vargas, Nueva Esparta (the Island of Margarita), Yaracuy, Falcon, Carabobo, Zulia and Tachira. Initial reports indicate many deaths, but at this point the figure is not known. Over 112,000 people are estimated to be directly affected. Over 22,000 homes have been damaged, of which over 1,000 are reported to be destroyed. With the rainfall expected to continue, the Government of Venezuela has declared a state of emergency.
Red Cross/Red Crescent Action
In cooperation with Civil Defence authorities, the Venezuelan Red Cross is assisting in search, rescue, and evacuation operations, and providing food, clothing, emergency generators, and vehicles. More than 200 Red Cross volunteers are actively involved. The Federation has released CHF 60,000 from the Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) to facilitate the initial phase of emergency assistance.
Needs
A needs assessment is currently underway. Delegates have been placed on standby for deployment. The President of the National Society has indicated that international assistance will be needed.
Santiago Gil
Director
Americas Department
Peter Rees-Gildea
Director
Operations Funding and Reporting Department