Over 50 people are now dead in Haiti as heavy rain continues to pound the French Caribbean Community Island. It has been raining cats and dogs in Haiti since last weekend. 15 people are now reported missing according to the authorities

Jerry Chandler, the Head of the Civil Protection Office (DPC), said 12,779 families have been affected with an estimated 13,633 houses flooded in several departments.

“The biggest impact was the West region (metropolitan area). The other ecologically vulnerable regions of the country that have suffered heavy damage are: the North West; Nippes and the South-East,” he said

Although the numbers are expected to climb, reports say at least 85 people have been injured following the rains.

Prime Minister Dr Arield Henry is seeking international assistance to respond to the needs of the population.

Several people have been affected by the rains that have caused several rivers to overflow their banks resulting in floods, and landslides in many areas.

“My government is in contact with national and international institutions, and is taking urgent measures in order to meet the demands of the hour,” he said

Currently, the government is assessing the damages and how to proceed with emergency response

Shelter, food and sanitation facilities are being deployed with the assistance of the UN aid groups and civil protection volunteers

“The humanitarian community is working alongside national institutions to come to the aid of those affected. I’m particularly concerned about this situation when the Haitian population is already facing great vulnerabilities”, Acting Humanitarian Coordinator for Haiti, Jean-Martin Bauer

Adding, “the humanitarian response plan is still too weak financed with only 20 percent of the necessary budget received. I call for solidarity with the Haitian people from all donors to ensure the financing of this plan which will be critical in the response to these floods and the preparation for the next bad weather,” Bauer added.

Affected residents have started to receive hot meals and ready-to-eat rations, thanks to the World Food Programme (WFP)