GENEVA, Sept 5 (Reuters) - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies appealed on Friday for 3.8 million Swiss francs ($3.4 million)to help 50,000 people in Haiti recover from Hurricanes Gustav and Hanna. The world's largest disaster relief network said the funds would help support the humanitarian operations of the Haitian Red Cross over the next six months.

"Essential food items, first aid materials, vital medicines, clean drinking water and shelter are among the most urgent needs at this time, according to (Federation) specialists on the ground," the Geneva-based agency said.

At least 136 people died in Haiti's floods and mudslides triggered by Hanna.

Thousands of Red Cross volunteers are working round the clock to help the mounting number of victims from the storms, the agency said.

Continuing heavy rains blocked access to the affected areas making delivery of essential aid extremely hazardous, and delaying much-needed humanitarian assessments, it said.

The United Nations is preparing to issue an appeal for funds for Haiti, which it said had requested international aid. (reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; editing by Alison Williams)

AlertNet news is provided by