South China drought
More than 21 million people affected by severe drought across two provinces.
19/10/2011 / EMERGENCY
World Vision has declared a category three emergency (its
highest level) in South China due to drought. The drought is
affecting more than 21 million people in Guizhou and Yunnan
Provinces. In the latter, 61,333 hectares of crops have been ruined
and 60 rivers and 300 reservoirs have dried up.
"Many families facing food shortages worry they cannot provide
enough food for their children due to failed harvests" explains
World Vision China national director, Dr Chao Wang. "In addition,
6.2 million people are facing drinking water shortages".
For two consecutive years, the severe drought has impacted
people in these two provinces. The total direct economic loss is
approximately US$2.5 billion.
The Chinese authorities have already committed US$26 million for
the drought in Guizhou. So far it has responded to 2 million people
facing drinking water shortages.
Meanwhile, a World Vision assessment team has predicted
drought-affected communities will face food shortages for the
coming three to five months.
Five Area Development Programmes (communities with populations
between 40,000-100,000) funded by WV Australia, WV Hong Kong and WV
Malaysia are affected.
WV China will respond to ADP and non-ADP areas by distributing
food and safe drinking water.
Needs assessments are still on-going in coordination with other
NGOs and government counterparts.
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