Honduras: Emergency Declared for Flooding in Gracias a Dios; Rains Cause Evacuations and Crop Losses

The department of Gracias a Dios in Honduras faces an emergency as intense rains caused the Patuca River to overflow, inundating communities, forcing evacuations, and devastating agricultural lands. Ezequiel Cruz, subcommissioner for the Permanent Contingency Commission (Copeco), reported that the municipalities of Ahuas, Wampusirpi, and Brus Laguna are severely affected.

Around 160 families have been evacuated to higher ground due to the rising river levels. The floods have also resulted in significant crop losses for an estimated 200 to 500 families, impacting their primary source of income from rice, yucca, plantain, corn, and cacao. The sudden increase in the river's flow surprised residents, especially as the region had recently experienced a drought.

Local authorities in Wampusirpi have begun the process of declaring a state of emergency following the extensive damage to crops and food supplies. Copeco is closely monitoring the Patuca River, as a potential decrease in water levels in Wampusirpi could lead to further flooding downstream in Ahuas and Brus Laguna. With more rain expected, residents living near the riverbanks are urged to move to safe areas and heed official warnings. Copeco also requested urgent humanitarian assistance from the central government, citing limitations in essential supplies like fuel, food, and building materials.