New Zealand support for Guatemala following Tropical Storm Agatha

New Zealand will provide NZ$300,000 to the International Federation of the Red Cross appeal following Tropical Storm Agatha, New Zealand Ambassador to Mexico, Cecile Hillyer announced today.

Tropical Storm Agatha caused severe flooding and landslides in Guatemala and also impacted on El Salvador and Honduras.

"In Guatemala close to 25,000 homes have been damaged in some way and sadly 154 deaths have been reported. Large numbers of people have been evacuated from their homes and there is an urgent need for humanitarian assistance to help the injured and support people left homeless by the storm."

The situation is compounded by the recent eruption of the Pacaya volcano which has blocked drainage systems and forced 1,600 people to move to evacuation centres.

The International Federation of the Red Cross appeal is supporting the Guatemalan Red Cross response to the disaster and is targeting 1,500 families (7,500 people) with food and non-food relief items, emergency health care, water, sanitation and hygiene promotion. Shelter for up to 500 families and supporting early recovery efforts are also part of the appeal.

"New Zealand is pleased to be able to support the International Federation of the Red Cross appeal and the people affected by Tropical Storm Agatha," Cecile Hillyer said.