USAID's Response to Colombian Floods

USAID's Response to Colombian Floods

Washington, D.C. - In response to heavy rains, extensive flooding and landslides in the north-central departments of Santander and Norte de Santander and the central department of Tolima, the United States is providing $50,000 through the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá (USAID/Colombia) to the Colombian Red Cross for the purchase and distribution of relief supplies. These relief supplies include emergency food, potable water and blankets. In addition, a USAID Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance (USAID/OFDA) consultant based in Colombia is collaborating with USAID/Colombia and local disaster officials to asses the extent of the damage and provide additional updates as necessary.

On February 14, U.S. Ambassador to Colombia William B. Wood issued a disaster declaration due to the damage caused by the flooding. To date 28 people have been killed, 99 others have been injured, approximately 1,500 houses have been destroyed and more than 27,000 people have been affected by the heavy rainfall.

The U.S. Embassy and USAID will closely monitor the situation and will continue to work with the government of Colombia and local non-governmental organizations to help flood victims. Please visit our website for more information on USAID's efforts in Colombia: http://www.usaid.gov/.

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