Background on the Situation
The interim Haitian government has declared a state of emergency in six southern departments following the impact of Hurricane Melissa. These departments include Sur, Southeast, Grand’Anse, Nippes, Ouest, and Nord-Ouest.
Impact of Hurricane Melissa
Hurricane Melissa has severely affected these regions, resulting in 31 fatalities, 20 people reported missing, 20 injuries, and over 15,000 individuals affected from October 23 to 29, according to Haitian news agency AlterPresse.
Current Situation and Needs
More than 13,900 people are currently residing in temporary shelters, primarily in the southern regions of Nippes and Grand’Anse. These individuals urgently require supplies such as tarpaulins, food, clean drinking water, and hygiene items.
Furthermore, the situation in Port-au-Prince’s displaced camps has worsened. Over 1.4 million people in the south live under acute food insecurity (Phase 3 of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification – IPC), including 350,000 in emergency situations.
The hurricane has destroyed banana plantations, fruit trees, and food crops, jeopardizing the agricultural campaign.
Government Response and Tribute
In response to the tragedy, the Haitian government has declared three days of national mourning from Monday to Wednesday in honor of the hurricane’s victims. During these days, the Haitian flag will fly at half-mast, and entertainment venues will remain closed.
Key Questions and Answers
- What regions are under the state of emergency? The interim Haitian government has declared a state of emergency in the departments of Sur, Southeast, Grand’Anse, Nippes, Ouest, and Nord-Ouest.
- How many people are affected by the hurricane? Over 15,000 individuals have been impacted by Hurricane Melissa between October 23 and 29.
- What are the urgent needs of those displaced by the hurricane? Displaced individuals require tarpaulins, food, clean drinking water, and hygiene items.
- How has agriculture been affected by the hurricane? The hurricane has destroyed banana plantations, fruit trees, and food crops, putting the agricultural campaign at risk.
- What tributes are being paid to the hurricane’s victims? The Haitian government has declared three days of national mourning, with the flag flying at half-mast and entertainment venues remaining closed in honor of the victims.
