SITUATION REPORT
Cyclone Nargis – 9 May 2008
BACKGROUND
As reports indicate that the number of dead has likely risen to 100,000 or more, and as aid workers continue to seek access to the country, the situation on the ground is growing more desperate.
HOW SAMARITAN’S PURSE IS RESPONDING
The Incident Management Team is currently coordinating with Affiliate Offices in Canada, the UK, and Australia as well as field offices in the area to determine the most effective response. In addition, we are in contact with U.S. and foreign government agencies to seek access to the area. Our preparations currently include:
► We have a tentative agreement with the government of Myanmar to airlift a 747 cargo plane loaded with 12 WMI water filter systems and 4,000 rolls of heavy-duty plastic from Charlotte to Yangon.
► PuR sachets and kits are expected to arrive in Bangkok from Dubai today. We will try to forward these into Yangon as soon as possible.
► One staff member from Canada will be travelling into Myanmar Saturday morning.
► The Canadian office has had a water-purification team on the ground in Yangon. They confirmed that clean water is a top priority. Salt water pushed inland by the cyclone flooded local wells. Wells need to be pumped out and allowed to refill with fresh water.
► We have been told there is a need for chainsaws to clear fallen trees, generators, and pumps to help remove salt water from wells. The WMI filter systems have generators and are capable of pumping contaminated water from wells.
► The Water Missions International filter systems from S.C. and the heavy-duty plastic from our warehouse in N. Wilkesboro will be sent to Charlotte as soon as the airlift is confirmed.
► There are audio reports posted on the Samaritan’s Purse Web site.
► A media release was distributed Tuesday.
► SP staff from six countries have been mobilized and are en route to Bangkok and Myanmar. The team will include our Livestock and Agriculture Advisor and our Food Advisor.
WAYS YOU CAN HELP
Pray:
·For the victims of this disaster.
·For favor with the government so that we will be allowed access into the country.
·For wisdom as the Incident Management Team determines the best way to help the people of Myanmar.
Donations: Go to www.samaritanspurse.org or call 1-828-262-1980.
recent comments