Disastrous Floods in Suriname

"Due to extremely heavy rainfall starting on 1 May, parts of southern and central Suriname along the Upper Suriname River and other rivers have been inundated, with approximately 25,000 - 30,000 square kilometres under water. Currently, 157 villages in the remote lowlands have been affected. People living on the banks of the rivers and on islands have fled to higher ground. The number of people in the affected areas is estimated to be between about 37,000, of whom over 22,000 are believed to be homeless. Buildings, roads, ports, airstrips, and telecommunications have been damaged, as well as the electricity grid. "

Consequently, United Nations to dispatch emergency team to assist in Suriname floods (OCHA). "Although assessments are currently underway, preliminary indications are that immediate needs exist for food, water, sanitation, emergency shelter, transport and telecommunications, as well as expertise. Due to poor road and airstrip conditions, transport is a major difficulty. Authorities in the country warn that the situation may worsen, with water continuing to rise and more areas becoming affected."

Learn about Suriname.