IRCS Mobilizes Swift Aid Relief for Flood-Affected Communities in Dominican Republic and Jamaica

In response to the devastating floods caused by Tropical Storm Melissa in the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has expressed its commitment to provide humanitarian aid to those affected. The recent natural disasters have resulted in significant loss of life and extensive damage, prompting international organizations to step in and offer support.

According to Pir-Hossein Kolivand, the head of the IRCS, “With deep sorrow, we have learned about the recent storms, heavy rainfalls, floods, and landslides in the Dominican Republic, which have led to the death and disappearance of many citizens and damaged different parts of the country. The Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) expresses sincere condolences to you and the families of the victims.”

In his message to Miguel Sanz, President of the Dominican Red Cross, Kolivand emphasized that the IRCS stands ready to assist in any way possible during this challenging time.

Impact of Tropical Storm Melissa

As reported by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on October 27, Tropical Storm Melissa has remained nearly stationary, resulting in:

• Continuous heavy rainfall and strong winds, particularly affecting southern and southwestern regions of the Dominican Republic.
• Significant soil saturation, leading to an increase in landslides and infrastructure damage.

The most pressing humanitarian issue is the disruption of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services. The combined data from the National Institute of Potable Water and Sewage (INAPA) and the Santo Domingo Water and Sewage Corporation (CAASD) indicate that:

• 1,274,237 water users are affected, marking a notable rise from previous reports.
• Over 60 water systems have failed due to high turbidity and power outages.

Displacement and Housing Challenges

In addition to the water crisis, the storm has caused significant damage to housing:

• An estimated 263 homes have been damaged.
• More than 1,380 individuals have been displaced, with many seeking shelter with friends and family.
• Authorities are currently operating five active shelters, accommodating 86 people across the National District, San Cristóbal, and San Juan provinces.
• Approximately 37 communities are isolated due to compromised access routes.

Disruption to Education and Health Services

The education sector has faced a complete shutdown since the suspension of classes on October 23, affecting:

• 2,587,965 children and adolescents, which accounts for 100% of the enrolled student population.

In response to the crisis, the National Health Service activated a directive to ensure the continuous operation of health facilities during emergencies. The Ministry of Public Health and the National Health Service are:

• Reinforcing epidemiological surveillance to monitor potential outbreaks of waterborne and vector-borne diseases.
• Conducting sanitary supervision in shelters and impacted communities.
• Maintaining active emergency plans in hospitals.

UNICEF’s initial estimates suggest that over 695,000 individuals, including 222,000 children, have been impacted across provinces under a Red Alert.

Government Response and Community Support

The government’s response, supported by the Ministry of Public Works, National Defense, and Civil Defense, focuses on:

• Rescue operations and debris removal.
• Logistical support for affected communities.

In addition, authorities have utilized the telecommunications sector to send millions of SMS messages containing life-saving information and preventative instructions. The temporary suspension of classes in Red Alert provinces is a crucial measure to ensure the safety of students.

In a separate communication to Allasandra Chung, President of the Jamaica Red Cross, Kolivand also expressed his condolences and readiness to send relief supplies to victims in Jamaica. Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on October 28 as a Category 5 storm, inflicting catastrophic winds, flooding, and storm surges, which led to island-wide power outages and severe infrastructure damage.

With the situation evolving, the IRCS remains committed to providing humanitarian assistance to those in need, demonstrating solidarity during this crisis.