Norway provides NOK 7.6 million for emergency relief following tropical storm Agatha

Norway is to provide emergency relief for Guatemala following tropical storm Agatha.

“Norway wants to help the victims of the storm in Guatemala. We are therefore providing a total of NOK 7.6 million (USD 1.2 million) for emergency relief,” State Secretary Ingrid Fiskaa said.

The storm has brought torrential rains, flooding and landslides. Over 100 000 people have been driven from their homes.

“This was the highest rainfall for several decades, and it has caused extensive damage. We are maintaining close contact with the Guatemalan authorities with regard to the country’s needs for emergency relief and reconstruction following the devastation caused by the storm,” Ms Fiskaa commented.

Ms Fiskaa is to visit Guatemala this week. In her talks with the country’s authorities, she will be updated on the extent of the damage and the plans for reconstruction.

The Norwegian emergency relief funds will be channelled through the Red Cross system and the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). CERF makes it possible to provide rapid assistance during the first critical phase following natural disasters and other humanitarian crises.

Press Duty Officer, international development, mobile phone: +47 913 95 000.