In response to the escalating snowstorms in central, eastern and southern China, three World Vision China's Humanitarian & Emergency Affairs assessment teams arrived in the hardest hit areas in Hunan, Guangxi and Jiangxi from February 1-3. Another team is expected to arrive in Anhui today.

National Director of World Vision China, Dr. Thomas S.T. Chan declared this snowstorm relief operation a Category One emergency with a Level One response.

The severe weather, which has lasted for nearly 3 weeks, has caused great havoc in over 17 provinces and regions in China, killing at least 60 people and collapsing about 220,000 houses. Transport has come to a halt owing to the heavy snow and power lines have also been weighed down by ice and sleet.

According to the latest weather forecasts, heavy snow would continue until February 9. There is an urgent need for warm clothing and shelters for the affected people.

World Vision is planning to distribute 40,030 quilts to 80,060 people in Hunan, Guangxi, Jiangxi and Anhui to help them see the cold weather out. Distribution of 15,000 quilts will first start in Hunan today.

Initially, a funding of USD 290,000 has been committed by World Vision Hong Kong. Another proposal is being submitted to the Hong Kong SAR Government to provide further relief assistance in the four provinces/areas. Should this government grant comes through, World Vision China will have secured adequate funding to meet the current emergency response needs. Further funding will thus be directed to rehabilitation needs.

For more information, please contact Priscilla Tin, Senior Communications Officer at (852) 9324-9315 or Michelle Tam, Communications Officer at (852) 9613-3111. For enquiries regarding proposals, funding interest, donor interest, etc, please contact Meimei Leung, Senior HEA Officer at (852) 9327-5674.