ATLANTA (November 3, 2001) --- In northern Honduras, the international humanitarian organization CARE is providing immediate provisions of clean water and temporary shelter to families affected by recent floods and mudslides caused by Hurricane Michelle. According to the National Meteorological Service, the storm has left three times as much water in the country than Hurricane Mitch three years ago.

"In surreal coincidence, this week is the third anniversary of Hurricane Mitch, and Honduras once again is in a state of emergency," says Barbara Jackson, CARE director in Honduras. "The situation is complex. Over the past several months the country has suffered from severe drought that badly affected the first harvest. Now extremely heavy rains from Hurricane Michelle have wiped out the possibility for a second harvest for much of the northern coast area. Combining these effects with high unemployment, declining coffee prices and poor export market conditions, you have a country with deepened poverty. It will be very difficult for families to generate income. An already precarious situation for the masses has worsened."

As of Friday, the hurricane had left several people dead, tens of thousands of people homeless, five bridges destroyed and three more damaged. CARE staff also report that many coastal towns have been without electricity and water for much of the week and many roads have been washed out.

The trajectory of the storm is north-northwest at a very slow and erratic 3 mph pace.

"This pattern replicates Mitch and like Mitch, there is concern that it might double back," adds Jackson. "The next two days will be critical."

CARE is working in close coordination with the National Committee for Permanent Contingencies (COPECO), the UN and partner organizations to monitor the situation, prioritize the need and identify appropriate responses.

About CARE CARE, one of the world’s largest international humanitarian organizations, helps people and communities achieve lasting solutions to poverty. In 2000, CARE programs benefited more than 27 million people in more than 60 countries. For more than 40 years, CARE has worked with Hondurans to improve their health, agricultural practices, roads, access to safe drinking water and education.

Media Contact:

In Atlanta:		Allen Clinton		(404) 457-4635 clinton@care.org.
In Honduras:		Barbara Jackson		(504) 239-4204 jackson@hon.care.org.