Heavy rainfalls since September have caused severe floods in the Upper West, Upper East, Northern Regions and parts of the Brongahafo and Volta regions. 31,000 houses have collapsed and 117,000 acres of farmlands have been destroyed. While the exact number of persons in need and the profile of the affected population require clarification, disaster relief assistance is planned for a total of 300,000 persons. Although flood waters have started to recede slowly, many communities still remain inaccessible.
Reports also indicate that flood water is moving to the south, thus enlarging the affected area.
Most of the public service facilities, such as health posts and schools, are no longer operational. The very poor condition of sanitation, health and food supply requires immediate attention. Cholera outbreaks are reported from all the affected regions, and the nutritional status of the affected population is becoming a problem. National Response 4. On 25 October, the Minister of Foreign Affairs briefed the local donor community and appealed for emergency relief assistance.