DISASTER DECLARATION FOR SEVERE FLOODING IN MARANHAO -

UNCLAS RECIFE 000017 E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: EAID TBIO SENV BR SUBJECT: DISASTER DECLARATION FOR SEVERE FLOODING IN MARANHAO - BRAZIL ¶1. This is an action request. See paragraph 4. ¶2. The Ambassador has determined, based upon information from Brazil's Secretariat for Civil Defense and Maranhao State Government, that the severe destruction due to recent record Rains and flooding is of sufficient magnitude to warrant USG emergency assistance. ¶3. Continued heavy rains have caused serious flooding affecting over 85,000 state residents and over 6,000 homes destroyed. The worst of the flooding is occurring in central Marahnao, with initial reports stating that this is the worst flooding in over 40 years. ¶4. The Ambassador has requested USDOLS 50,000, which will be used to purchase emergency supplies and support basic housing repair for the most vulnerable families in the hardest-hit municipalities within the state. Funds will be channeled through the Red Cross. ¶1. ¶5. It is not known at this time if additional funds will be required. Disaster Relief Officer (MDRO) will keep OFDA informed if any additional requests might be forthcoming. ¶6. The cable has been cleared by Embassy Brasilia. DEL CORSO