USAID Support for Guatemala Landslide Assistance
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 1, 2005
2005-053
Press Office: 202-712-4320
Public Information: 202-712-4810
www.usaid.gov
Contact: USAID Press Office
WASHINGTON, DC - In response to the heavy rains of June 15 which caused extensive flooding and landslides in the El Calvario Mountains north of Guatemala City, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced it has provided disaster assistance to the affected area.
On June 24, the U.S. Ambassador to Guatemala John R. Hamilton issued a disaster declaration due to the results of the landslide triggered in the eight affected communities. According to the National Disaster Reduction Coordinating Committee (CONRED), the landslide killed 23 people and injured 35 others. In addition, 40 people are reported missing and more than 300 families have been displaced.
Among the U.S. government assistance were 100 large rolls of plastic sheeting, which were airlifted by USAID's Office for Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA). The supplies are used for erecting temporary shelters in the affected communities. USAID consultants and staff are traveling to Senahu to assist with further assessment of damages and provide additional updates as necessary.
The U.S. Embassy and USAID will closely monitor the situation and will continue to work with the government of Guatemala and local non-governmental organizations to further help landslide victims.
Please visit our website for more information on USAID's efforts in Guatemala: www.usaid.gov
The U.S. Agency for International Development has provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 40 years.
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