SALVATION Army emergency relief teams are assisting with urgent repairs to homes damaged by devastating hailstorms in Rosario, Argentina. The city's people are in a state of shock at the chaos caused by storms which left five people dead, hundreds injured and many others homeless. Some victims were buried when roofs gave way under the weight of hailstones the size of tennis balls.
Colonel Peder Refstie, leader of The Salvation Army in Argentina, reports: ‘Desperation and anguish have taken over and the streets are crowded with people pleading for help. It will be some time now until the city gets back to some kind of normality. There are still over 200 evacuees and more than 38 schools will remain closed. Currently, more than 4,000 homes remain without electricity. Communications and public transportation have also been badly affected.'
Major Carlos Bembhy, based in Rosario as commander of The Salvation Army's Central Argentina Division, adds: ‘The Salvation Army, working in conjunction with government officials, has surveyed the worst-affected areas. Assistance is being given to help families repair roofs and replace damaged mattresses and beds. Seven hundred corrugated metal roof sheets (valued at US$19,000) are needed to help the most vulnerable families.'
In response to a request for assistance, International Headquarters immediately advanced US$10,000 but further funds are needed if the most urgent requirements are to be met.
International Emergency Services Coordinator
