International Federation appeals on behalf of victims of Siberian spring thaw
29 May 2001

The Russian Red Cross is steppping up its efforts to support thousands of people who have lost their homes in the worst floods to hit Eastern Siberia in a century. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is appealing today for Swiss francs 480,000 to assist 15,000 people over the next eight months.

"It is only as the flood-waters start to recede that we can see the full extent of the devastation. The next few months are critical as the long winter will begin in September. Many families have lost everything in these floods and we want to help them with basic supplies such as multi-fuel stoves, kitchen utensils, sleeping packs, hygiene packs, children's clothing and baby food," said Ms. Grazyna Samsel, International Federation desk officer for the Russian Federation.

Since May 13, 45,900 people have been moved to evacuation centres and higher ground; some staying with relatives and others living in tents though night-time temperatures can still fall below zero. Red Cross officials today were assessing evacuation centres in Yakutsk which are accommodating 500 children from the flooded town of Lensk.

Russian Red Cross relief efforts have delivered over 40 tons of food and other aid to the worst-affected regions of Yakutsk and Irkutsk. Red Cross relief activities are being closely co-ordinated with the Ministry of Emergencies and other local services.

For further information, or to set up interviews, please contact:

Denis McClean, Head of Media Service, Tel.: +41 22 730 4428/ + 41 79 217 3357

Rita Plotnokoval, Information Officer Tel: +7502 9375267 / 9375268

The Geneva-based International Federation promotes the humanitarian activities of 181 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies among vulnerable people. By coordinating international disaster relief and encouraging development support, it seeks to prevent and alleviate human suffering. The Federation, National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross together, constitute the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.