Since 1 October
heavy rains, influenced by tropical storm Stan, have been lashing
the whole Central America region. The rains are the heaviest experienced
in the last four years and are expected to continue for at least 48
hours. Tropical storm Stan is a cyclone system that originated in
the Pacific then became a hurricane level one affecting the south
of Mexico.
The ACT Forum
in El Salvador reports that hundreds of small to medium landslides
have been reported country-wide and the death toll currently stands
at 52. Rivers and lakes are well above danger levels and this overflow
of water has resulted in significant discharges from hydro-electric
dams. Over 1,500 families have had to be evacuated and many thousands
have fled their homes to escape the flood waters. To date the state
has set up 54 shelters. 65% of the territory of El Salvador is prone
to landslides and two of the most threatened areas are "El Picacho"
(the peak) of San Salvador and "Pinares de Suiza". These
areas are densely populated and were the first to be warned of the
flooding and to evacuate as soon as possible. There are several areas
that are partially or completely isolated from the rest of the country
due to landslides and destruction of the roads in the flood waters.
The ACT El Salvador
Forum has sent assessment teams to the areas of Santa Ana, Jayaque,
La Herradura and Puerto Parada. Following preliminary findings they
are planning to assist around a thousand families in these areas as
well as in Cara Sucia and Sonsonate where the flooding is the most
severe.
The ACT Forum
in Guatemala reports that the Guatemalan government has declared
a red alert in some of the municipalities of Escuintla, Retalhuleu
and San Marcos. In Escuintla there are more than 280 communities affected
by flooding. Official reports indicate that 3 persons have died, 47
are injured and 2,772 have been evacuated. It is estimated that 23,300
people have been affected and that 25,320 are at risk. 1,869 persons
are currently in shelters.
The ACT Forum
in Guatemala are assessing the situation. According to their preliminary
assessment the most urgent needs are potable water, food, blankets
and clothes.
The ACT Forum
in Nicaragua reports that the rains have caused heavy flooding
on the Atlantic coastal areas and the government has declared as state
of emergency in the Waspan region. ACT member Christian Medical Action
(AMC), who works in this region, is already responding to the situation
and coordinating with other agencies in the region. They plan to provide
food and medicines to avoid the widespread of waterborne diseases.
ACT Forum in Honduras
have been closely monitoring the situation and providing information
to the ACT CO. The ACT CO will advance funds from the RRF to assist
the members with an immediate response. An appeal may be forthcoming.
The ACT CO would
appreciate indications of funding from donor members for this emergency.
