Most Recent Disaster Declaration:
Russia Fires, 08-06-2010
Beginning in July, record high temperatures and drought have resulted in the spread of wildfires in western and southern Russia. As of August 5, 600 wildfires continued to cover more than 728 square miles and had caused an estimated 50 deaths, displaced approximately 3,500 individuals, destroyed approximately 1,000 homes and 200 aircraft, and approached at least two nuclear power facilities, according to the Government of Russia’s (GoR) Ministry of the Russian Federation for Affairs of Civil Defense, Emergencies, and Disaster Relief (EMERCOM). EMERCOM led firefighting efforts in Russia, mobilizing more than 129,000 individuals and equipment, including 20 aircraft, to manage and prevent the further spread of wildfires. EMERCOM was also prepared to augment response activities with a reserve force of 81,000 additional people and corresponding equipment. However, the fires led authorities in 36 regions to declare states of emergency, and international media reports indicated that fire-related smog impeded firefighting efforts.
On August 6, U.S. Chargé Affaires Eric S. Rubin issued a disaster declaration due to the effects of the fires. In response, USAID/OFDA provided $50,000 through USAID/Russia for immediate provision of humanitarian assistance to fire-affected populations. In addition, USAID/OFDA deployed two disaster management specialists through its partnership with the U.S. Forest Service Disaster Assistance Support Program. The two-person team met with U.S. Government and GoR representatives to provide technical assistance, facilitate coordination, and determine the need for any further assistance to support fire management efforts.
For information on USAID's hurricane recovery and reconstruction programs, please see here.
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