ReliefWeb

As many as 4.7 million people in 11 Pacific countries (2.4 million in PNG and the total populations of the remaining Pacific nations) are at risk of adverse effects of drought including water shortages, food insecurity and disease. Governments are taking measures to mitigate the potential impacts of the drought. The government is delivering water to drought affected areas in Fiji. The Vanuatu government is delivering food to affected communities especially those affected by Tropical cyclone Pam. In Papua New Guinea, the drought and frost have impacted economic, agricultural, education and health sectors. It is anticipated that the current situation will become devastating if the drought continues. Key needs include the provision of drinking water, food and purification tablets.