Natural Disaster

Natural disasters

An earthquake, tsunami, flood or cyclone can have a devastating impact on entire communities.

Within a matter of minutes, natural disasters can affect the lives of tens of thousands of people. Hundreds or even thousands of people can be injured, homes and livelihoods destroyed. Access to clean water, healthcare services and transport can also be disrupted. The impact of each disaster varies greatly and our response must adapt to each situation.

Needs must be quickly identified, but accessing a disaster zone can be complex when roads are cut off. The first responders are people already on-site: community members, local authorities and aid organisations already present.

We keep pre-packaged kits to deploy for rapid relief and life-saving assistance. With projects in over 70 countries, we often have aid workers nearby when a disaster strikes. They can be reinforced with additional teams if a larger response is needed.

 
On an aerial assessment from Gumuruk to Lekongole, where MSF runs two primary healthcare units, people can be seen moving via canoes as their tukuls are completely submerged.
Access to Healthcare

Severe flooding in South Sudan: MSF assessing emergency needs in affected locations

Press Release 21 Oct 2019
 
Boat with NFI items on its way to Chibuabuabua, Savane, in Dondo District.Giuseppe La Rosa/MSF
Natural Disasters

“Beneath the waters, you will find us”

Stories from the Frontline 30 May 2019
 
A road in Zimbabwe has been partly washed away following devastation caused by Cyclone Idai, 15 March 2019.
Natural Disasters

Cyclones and flooding in Mozambique and southern Africa

Project Update 10 May 2019
 
Uprooted tree on Matemo Island, Cabo Delgado province after passage of Cyclone Kenneth
Access to Healthcare

Cholera and widespread destruction as second cyclone hits Mozambique

Article 6 May 2019
 
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Cholera

Crisis update: MSF's response to Cyclone Idai

Crisis Update 8 Apr 2019
 
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Natural Disasters

Mapping the needs: new technologies help the emergency response

Article 29 Mar 2019