The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has launched an appeal for 4.2 million Swiss francs (3.3 million $USD / 2.7 million euros) to support the Red Cross relief operations for 40,000 people in Haiti affected by the consequences of Tropical Storm Jeanne.

Due to the high level of deforestation in the country, torrential rains have caused massive flooding and landslides in northern parts of the country, leaving more than 600 dead and thousands stranded and homeless. The storm also destroyed houses, crops and roads. The death toll is certain to rise as more bodies are found in the floodwaters.

The Red Cross responded immediately to the floods, with volunteers participating in rescue operations, and distributing food, water and emergency stocks of relief items. "The impact of the floods and landslides will be felt for some considerable time to come as these same areas were also severely affected by torrential rains in May," said Hans Havik, head of the International Federation delegation in Haiti.

There is an urgent need for food and drinking water as well as blankets and plastic sheeting. Given the contamination of water sources and the flooding of latrines, there are concerns about possible outbreaks of water-related diseases. The International Federation operation aims to help the Haitian Red Cross to assist 40,000 people for the next six months by supplying them with food, kitchen equipment, plastic sheeting, jerry cans, tents, treated mosquito nets and first aid kits. The Federation will also supply water purification tablets and hygiene articles.

The International Federation, which had already released 150,000 Swiss francs from its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) to help get the operation started, is coordinating its work closely with the International Committee of Red Cross and Red Cross societies already operating in the country in support of the Haitian Red Cross.

Jeanne became the sixth hurricane of the season when it strengthened as it passed over Puerto Rico. It weakened to a tropical storm as it moved across the island of Hispaniola.

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