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ACT Alert
Dominican
Republic - 1/2003
Floods
Geneva,
25 November, 2003
Heavy rains that have been falling since the beginning of November
have caused extensive floods in the northeast part of the Dominican
Republic. The Yaque, Amina and Yuna rivers flooded extensive agricultural
areas and have destroyed houses, crops and livestock. According to
the National Emergency Committee (CNE), the floods have affected 9,473
families and damaged 1,130 homes. Evacuees currently number 47,270
and the death toll has risen to nine. 2.159 persons are currently
in shelters . It is estimated that 195,000 "tareas" of crops are lost.
According to the Agricultural Ministry, is estimated that at least
600,000 quintals of rice, equivalent to one month's national supply,
have been lost. Hundreds of heads of livestock are also reported missing.
Currently the rains have receded in the basin of the Yaque and Yuna
rivers, however, more rains are expected this week. The red alert
is maintained from Mao to the Montecristi region. The rains are the
worst in the last 20 years. According to the CNE, the amount of rain
and damage is the same than that experienced in 1979 when Hurricane
David and Federico Storm hit the country. The government has been
providing some support to the affected areas, however, it is insufficient.
One area of most concern is health, as drinkable water is not available.
Many children and elders are affected by waterborne diseases.
ACT member, Social Services of Community Churches
(SSID) is assessing the situation. Churches are collecting food
and clothing for an immediate response to the affected population.
SSID is planning to respond in the areas where they currently have
development programs. The immediate needs identified are: food assistance,
blankets, medicines and home supplies. SSID intends to support the
population in the rehabilitation phase with the reconstruction of
houses and the recovery of the agriculture in 30 communities. The
estimated number of beneficiaries is 2000. SSID will keep the ACT
CO informed and an appeal may be forthcoming.
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