Hurricane Fiona causes catastrophic flooding and damage in Puerto Rico

Hurricane Fiona struck Puerto Rico on September 18, causing an island-wide power blackout and historic levels of rain producing landslides and catastrophic flooding in urban and rural areas, especially in the southern half of the country. Well over 30 inches of rain have fallen in some locations and the rain is expected to continue for the next 24-48 hours. As of September 20th, more than 1 million people are without electricity and almost 800,000 people are without access to drinking water. Mercy Corps staff report that floods have also affected farmers, small businesses, and fisherfolk villas throughout the south and eastern parts of the island.

Mercy Corps team members are in contact with our Puerto Rican partner organizations to better understand the specific needs of impacted communities and to determine support and response plans.

Extreme weather events like hurricanes and flash floods are evidence of a rapidly changing climate — and people living in poverty often suffer the most when storms hit. In places like Puerto Rico, and Pakistan, unpredictable weather has left hundreds of vulnerable communities displaced and in need of assistance. Mercy Corps is helping families prepare for and respond to natural disasters to build stronger, more resilient futures.

Give today to help us provide urgently needed relief including emergency cash, food, clean water, and long-term support that communities can use to prepare for and enhance resilience to extreme weather events like Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico, and many other crises around the world.

Photo: Vieques, Puerto Rico - August 2018