Peru earthquake
An earthquake off the coast of southern Peru measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale has claimed hundreds of lives and caused widespread damage.
The situation
- Around 500 people killed
- More than 1000 seriously injured
- At least 150,000 people affected
- Continuing strong aftershocks
Oxfam's humanitarian officer in Peru, Sergio Alvarez, travelled to the worst-hit zones to carry out an initial assessment:
Local authorities are asking for help, particularly with the distribution of medicines, tents and blankets, as many people have lost their homes. The distribution of tents has yet to be organised and there is no electricity or running water in the area. The situation is desperate, especially for those people who survived but who have lost their homes.
Oxfam's response
Oxfam has sent teams to assess damage and humanitarian needs in the region south of Lima. Oxfam is especially worried about people in affected rural areas because their houses are extremely vulnerable and they are harder to reach. We are planning to provide water, sanitation and shelter to 2,500 families (12,500 people).
Oxfam works with partners in the area affected by the earthquake. In 2001, Oxfam responded to the earthquake in Arequipa, providing water and shelters.
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Peru blog
Reports from Oxfam staff on the ground