The IOM Mission in the Dominican Republic is appealing for USD
250,000 from the United Nations' Central Emergency Response Fund
(CERF), as part of the consolidated UN flash appeal, to provide
immediate assistance to the population affected by Tropical Storm
Noel.

Tropical Storm Noel, which crossed the island of Hispaniola on
28 October, left 84 dead. The heavy rains that accompanied the
storm resulted in extensive flooding, landslides and the
destruction of bridges and roads throughout the country.  More
than 137 communities remain inaccessible. More than 16,000 homes
have been partially destroyed and 35 bridges and highways affected.
Approximately 65,000 persons have been displaced from their homes;
23,336 of them have taken refuge in official temporary shelters.
The remaining 67 per cent are staying with relatives or
friends.

IOM's role, as part of the inter-agency effort, includes
ensuring that adequate living conditions are provided for those who
have taken refuge in temporary shelters. IOM will be assisting in
the coordination of the timely delivery of essential relief
supplies and services in partnership with local and national
agencies such as the Red Cross and UN partners involved in
providing shelter and housing to ensure speedier responses to the
needs of the affected populations.

IOM will also work with partners in the areas of protection of
vulnerable populations most affected by the disaster and who need
psychosocial support.

It is estimated that over 80 per cent of the country's territory
has been affected. Apart from those who have been most severely
affected by losing their homes and possessions, many more people
will have been affected by the extensive damage to services and
livelihoods. Priority needs also include water and sanitation and
food.

For more information, please contact:

Niurka Piñeiro

IOM Washington DC

Tel: +1.202.862.1826 ext. 225

E-mail: "mailto:npineiro@iom.int" target="_blank" title=
"">npineiro@iom.int