Authorities report that the amount of rain normally expected in 1 year fell in the 5 days prior to December 16, 1999. In addition to the devastation in Vargas, the El Guapo dam broke, flooding areas in the downstream state of Miranda. The floods killed an estimated 30,000 people and left 600,000 without drinking water. These efforts restored drinking water to people from four cities in Vargas and Miranda. One relief organization should coordinate efforts and keep a master list of equipment and services being donated, which can be shared with all donors for the most efficient and successful implementation.
Local support is essential.
Because many supplies and resources come from other locations, involvement by local leaders and stakeholders is critical to mobilize workers for construction of temporary storage and distribution systems, and to help pinpoint areas of greatest need. Focus on short-term solutions. In the midst of disaster response efforts, it is important to maintain sight on immediate needs. In developed countries with higher standards of living, it is easy to get caught up in trying to reestablish the level of service previously provided. The focus must stay on the relief that is needed right away.