Washington - The American Red Cross is prepared to release funds and supplies, estimated at $100,000, to help the people of Myanmar who were affected by Cyclone Nargis, a deadly storm that made landfall on May 2.

Government and media reports estimate up to 10,000 deaths and catastrophic damage, causing widespread power and telecommunications outages. Initial reports also indicate the storm compromised water and fuel supplies, wiped out vital crops and, in some areas, destroyed 95 percent of the homes, leaving thousands of families without shelter.

Almost immediately, the Myanmar Red Cross began distributing thousands of family kits, containing clothing, blankets, cookware and hygiene supplies, and safe drinking water to schools and pagodas serving as emergency shelters. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has released an initial $189,000 to support the Red Cross relief effort in Myanmar.

The American Red Cross is in close contact with its colleagues at the Myanmar Red Cross and the International Federation, and continues to monitor the situation to assess the needs of survivors. The American Red Cross stands prepared to provide additional assistance as the situation develops.

Posted: 05|6|08 at 5:36 pm. Filed under: Press Release.