For Immediate Release
Office of Press Relations
press@usaid.gov
Statement by Administrator Samantha Power
The United States offers our deepest condolences to the people of Libya suffering from catastrophic flooding. Severe rainfall due to Storm Daniel and the subsequent failure of two dams have taken more than 6,000 lives and injured thousands more people, while thousands remain missing and unaccounted for. Homes, livelihoods, and entire communities have been washed away. The humanitarian needs are significant, and the United States is committed to assisting in the relief and recovery effort.
The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing an initial $1 million in humanitarian assistance to help meet the most immediate needs. USAID has also activated a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) to the North Africa region to lead the U.S. government’s humanitarian response. Comprised of disaster experts from USAID, this team will identify priority needs and coordinate with Libyan and international humanitarian partners to deliver support.
Our thoughts are with the Libyan people as they cope with this horrific disaster. The American people are committed to supporting the people of Libya during this difficult time.