Since 14 July, typhoon rains, landslides and flash floods have left more than 9,000 families homeless in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. At least 100 people are reported as dead or missing as a result of the rains and flooding, which have totally or partially destroyed over 11,500 houses.
“In some remote areas, whole villages have been swept away and essential public services, such as healthcare clinics, have been destroyed,” said the International Federation’s Head of Delegation in Pyongyang, Jaap Timmer. “There has also been widespread damage to roads and bridges, which has left many people displaced or stranded.”
In response to the crisis, the Red Cross Society of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK Red Cross) has mobilized over 2,300 volunteers to provide first aid and rescue and evacuation support in affected provinces, while Red Cross assessment teams have also been mobilized.
With the support of the International Federation, the DPRK Red Cross is currently sending blankets, kitchen sets, plastic sheeting, water containers and water purification tablets to almost 10,000 families whose homes were completely destroyed in the provinces of South Pyongan, North Hwanghe and Kangwon.
The International Federation is also assisting local authorities in working to provide essential items to the flood victims, while homeless and displaced families are currently being cared for at schools and public offices. In addition, local officials are working to repair the roads.
Extensive areas of farmland and fields have been inundated, wiping out much of the anticipated harvest. In addition, communications networks have been severely disrupted, making it difficult to collect reliable information on casualties.
Because some areas are inaccessible by road, the Vice President of the DPRK Red Cross recently surveyed the area by helicopter. The National Society’s Emergency Operations Room is also on alert.
Assessments are currently being carried out by the government, together with the DPRK Red Cross, to determine whether international assistance may be required.