CERF allocated over $3.3 million to respond tropical storm Agatha in Guatemala
15 June 2010: There was a flash appeal of $15 million
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| Community affected by storm Agatha [Photo: PAHO] |
in response to tropical storm Agatha in Guatemala and CERF is the largest donor for the appeal (47.5% of the grand total.) The
World Food Programme (WFP) will receive $1.2 million for food assistance to 47,500 people affected by volcano eruption and flood, landslides and crop losses. Some $654,000 will go to a joint project by the
International Organization of Migration (IOM), the
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for establishment and maintenance of basic living and sanitary conditions in temporary shelters for 2,400 families. Another joint project by the
Pan American Health Organization / the World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO),
U
nited Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and
Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has been allocated $581,000 to save lives and protect the health of the population affected by the storm. The
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) will use $563,000 for immediate assistance to restore food production and livelihoods of 2,150 farmer families affected by the storm. Finally, some $365,000 will go to the other joint project by
UNICEF and
PAHO/WHO for WASH programmes for 7,500 people.
The first tropical storm of the 2010 Pacific hurricane season, Agatha, made landfall on the pacific coast of Guatemala on 29 May, dumping more than 426 mm of rain in a short period of time affecting 21 of the 22 departments of the country, a phenomenon not registered since 1948.
Several rivers, including the country’s longest river, the Motagua, topped its banks, causing some 280 flood related events. Various damaged bridges and roads collapsed, leaving many communities severely affected and isolated. This situation prompted the Government of Guatemala to declare a State of National Calamity on 29 May leading to an appeal for international assistance on 1 June.
The effects of Pacaya volcanic eruption on 27 May limited and delayed search, rescue and humanitarian operations due to the closing of the international airport. Additionally, volcanic ash aggravated the situation by clogging the sewers and collapsing the water drainage system. This resulted in flooded streets and blocked access to main roads and bridges.
This situation is worsened by the current food insecurity, high rates of acute malnutrition, a dengue outbreak, and the Government’s budget deficit.
[Last Update: 9 July 2010]