Death Toll from Cyclone Nargis Rises

Recent reports suggest the death toll will exceed 25,000. The UN estimates that one million people have been left homeless due to the mass devastation. Poor families living in fragile houses in areas around Yangon (Rangoon) were among the worst hit.

Infrastructure throughout the affected areas has been severely damaged, cutting off roads and telecommunications. Many of the affected areas can only be reached by boat and roads remain littered with debris. Fuel stocks are depleting rapidly which will affect the transportation of clean drinking water, food and other emergency supplies.

"In emergencies like this, it often takes days before we know the extent of the damage and loss of life," said Rigo Giron, CARE's Director of Emergency Response. "The devastation of communications equipment and infrastructure makes it particularly hard to assess the enormity of Cyclone Nargis and its true impact," Giron added.

CARE is currently conducting field assessments in South Dagon and Thaketa areas to determine where the need is greatest. At present the provision of shelter and safe drinking water are the highest priorities followed by food and sanitation. CARE will distribute plastic sheeting, food, jerry cans, water purification tablets and oral rehydration solution to those affected in South Dagon and Thaketa.

Significant funds are required to ensure CARE can deliver rapid assistance to the thousands of people affected by the cyclone. With the death toll steadily rising, CARE is appealing to the international community to give generously in the face of this disaster.

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