PORT-AU-PRINCE: Heavy rains over the weekend have caused widespread flooding in Haiti, resulting in the loss of at least 42 lives and leaving 85 individuals injured, according to the country’s Civil Protection Agency.
The torrential rainfall led to the overflow of numerous rivers across Haiti, triggering flash floods, flooding, rockslides, and landslides, as reported by the United Nations.
The impact of the flooding has been particularly severe in five of Haiti’s ten departments: West, Nippes, South-East, North-West, and the Center. Thousands of homes have been inundated, forcing over 13,300 people to seek refuge elsewhere. Tragically, at least 11 individuals have been declared missing, adding to the growing concern for the affected communities.
In response to the crisis, Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry assured that urgent measures are being taken by the government in collaboration with national and international institutions. Rescue and relief efforts are underway, with emergency response teams and aid organizations mobilized to provide assistance to those affected by the floods.
As the heavy rains persist, the death toll continues to rise. With the situation remaining critical, humanitarian organizations are stepping up their efforts to address the immediate needs of the affected population. The World Food Programme announced its plans to provide hot meals to displaced individuals, while also mobilizing ready-to-eat rations and dry food supplies.
Haiti, a country already burdened by weak infrastructure and a history of criminal violence, political instability, and natural disasters, heavily relies on humanitarian aid. The United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warned of the possibility of further flooding, rockslides, and landslides if heavy rainfall persists in the coming days. The provisional death toll may rise even higher if preventive measures are not taken promptly.
The threat of additional rainfall looms as hurricane season begins on June 1, exacerbating the ongoing challenges faced by Haiti. The country remains in a vulnerable state, emphasizing the critical need for sustained support and preparedness to mitigate the impact of future disasters.
