Update: China floods
Flooding in southern China has affected some 68 million people across 22 provinces. The flooding has left at least 379 people dead and 141 missing. 4.5 million people have so far been evacuated. Rivers in the hardest-hit provinces are now threatening to flood surrounding cities and farmland, with more rains predicted. World Vision’s emergency response is underway, following assessments to identify immediate needs.
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Background
Mass flooding has affected more than 68 million people in 22 southern Chinese provinces. Among the hardest hit areas are Hunan, Fujian and Jiangxi provinces, where some villages remain submerged.
The flooding left in its wake at least 379 people dead and 141 missing, with 4.5 million people evacuated to safety. Houses have been damaged and possessions lost, and swathes of crops have been destroyed.
Another round of heavy rains is expected to hit areas in the south. According to media reports, about 35 rivers in hard-hit areas are now threatening to flood surrounding cities and farmland.
There are concerns that flood survivors will face food shortages in the next 6-12 months.
China’s rainy season, which began in May, follows the worst drought in a century for several southern regions.
World Vision’s response
World Vision staff have conducted initial damage and needs assessments in affected areas, including Jianxi and Hunan provinces, and will engage with provincial governments to determine the most appropriate response. Urgent needs have been identified as staple food and warm quilts.
Initial distributions have included hygiene kits and child friendly kits. In response to the needs of affected families in Jiangxi, World Vision plans to distribute rice and quilts and will work to improve shelter conditions for displaced people.
World Vision first began working in China in 1982, and most recently provided assistance to survivors of the April 2010 Qinghai, China earthquake.
World Vision has also provided awareness raising activities for thousands of children and families in China about disaster safety, including earthquake safety, using cartoon books that teach children where to go, what to do and who to contact in order to save lives ahead of a disaster.
Children sponsored by Australians
No areas where children sponsored by Australians live are affected by the flooding. However, please be assured that if we receive information of concern regarding any sponsored children we will contact sponsors immediately.
How you can help
Support for the Emergency & Preparedness Fund enables World Vision to prepare for emergencies by pre-stocking and positioning life-saving supplies and ensuring trained staff are available to be on the scene quickly, to respond to emergencies.