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This is an archived USAID document retained on this web site as a matter of public record.
USAID Support for Pakistan Flood Assistance
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 18, 2005
2005-11
Press Office: 202-712-4320
Public Information: 202-712-4810
www.usaid.gov
Contact: USAID Press Office
Washington, D.C. - The U.S. Agency for International Development, in response to the disaster declaration issues by U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Ryan C. Crocker, is giving $50,000, matching the Ambassador's Authority Funds, thus providing $100,000 to the USAID mission in Pakistan for the purchase and distribution of relief items including emergency shelter materials, blankets, clothing, potable water, and water purification supplies.
Since February 3, 2005, extreme cold, heavy snowfall and avalanches in northern Pakistan, combined with two weeks of heavy rains and flash floods in southwestern Pakistan, have resulted in the deaths of more than 420 people in these areas. On February 10 and 13, heavy rains caused three dams to burst, causing widespread flooding. Pakistani government officials believe that over 5,000 houses have collapsed because of the snowfall, but accurate data is not really available because of the difficulty in reaching some of the hardest hit areas.
The funds are used for immediate relief support for victims of these natural disasters, providing support that is critical following such events. These funds may be used by the local government, private voluntary agencies, or by the USAID mission for local purchase of relief supplies.
The U.S. State Department and USAID will continue to monitor the situation and provide assistance as appropriate.
The U.S. Agency for International Development has provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 40 years.
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