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Peru
earthquake: International Federation sends two planeloads of relief
items to Pisco 16 August 2007 Following the strong earthquake which hit the central coastal region of Peru on 15 August in the evening (local time), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ Pan-American Disaster Response Unit (PADRU) is sending out two planes of relief items this afternoon (local time) from Panama. The planes are loaded with tents, plastic sheeting, blankets and jerrycans for 2,000 families. They are expected to land in Pisco at approximately 16h00 local time. The planes are being sent out on request from local authorities for these goods. As soon as the disaster hit, the Peruvian Red Cross immediately sent a national intervention team, along with a logistician, into the region of the epicentre to evaluate needs and damage. The team has now reached Pisco and will go on to Ica, which is the most affected area. “The first impression of the team is that the damage is severe, especially to houses. It took them nearly seven hours to reach Pisco from Lima, a trip that normally takes two,” said Giorgio Ferrario, International Federation Regional Representative for South America in Lima. ”We know for the moment, according to local authorities, that at least 350 people are dead, but the toll will certainly rise, as search and rescue operations continue.” PADRU was immediately put on high alert after the quake struck and has deployed two of its disaster management delegates to assist with the emergency operation. The International Federation also has released 250,000 Swiss francs (US$205,000/ €153,000) from its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund to support the Peruvian Red Cross relief operation for victims of the quake. For further information, or to set up interviews, please contact: In Geneva: Marie-Françoise Borel, Communications Officer Tel: + 41 22 730 43 46 / + 41 79 217 33 45 Duty phone: Tel: + 41 79 416 38 81 In Lima: Susana Arroyo, Regional Communications Officer Tel: +511 221 8151/ +511-9755-5772 The Geneva-based International Federation promotes the humanitarian activities of 185 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. © International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies |
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