BELMOPAN, Belize– In the aftermath of Hurricane Lisa, the Government of Belize is requesting some 11 million dollars to meet immediate needs and provide basic food, household supplies, and construction materials to enable the affected population to have a level of human dignity.
Earlier this week, on Wednesday, Hurricane Lisa crossed the mainland of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country approximately five miles south of Belize City.
While there were no reported loss of life or significant injuries, approximately 39% of the population was affected, with initial estimates of losses to the housing sector amounting to approximately BZD 20 million (US$9.6 million).
Meanwhile, the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) has expressed willingness to support the government, conduct damage assessments, and distribute supplies to farmers.
For its part, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is on standby to assist in reducing waterborne illnesses and overall disease surveillance and eradication.
Assistance is also coming from the International Federation of Red Cross, which has now procured shelter kits and cleaning and hygiene kits that can assist approximately 500 families as needed.
The Belize Red Cross says it works closely with the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) and has Teams conducting Assessments on the ground.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Belize has conducted assessments, identified damaged schools, and has tents in-country for use if the need arises.
Other regional and international entities have pledged support to Belize, including the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) and the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation.
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