El Salvador Earthquake fact sheet

January 13, 2001—a 7.6 magnitude earthquake (The video was done after this first quake)

February 13,2001—a 6.6 magnitude earthquake

March 3, 2001 – The US government pledged $51million this year and $53 million in 2002.  While this is a big help it will only cover 5% of the total need.

These 2 earthquakes hit different parts of the country, subsequently most of the country has experienced some level of damage.  According to Salvadoran Vice President on Feb. 25^th, reconstruction will exceed 2.5 billion dollars, equivalent to 45 % of his country’s budget.  Obviously much aid is needed.

Current reports indicate more than 1,200 people have been killed.  By government count, 313,118 homes have been destroyed or rendered uninhabitable.  Cesar Alvardo, vice minister of housing, indicated that even before the earthquakes there was a deficit of 550,000 decent houses in this nation of 6 million. 

Vice President Carlos Quintanilla reported Feb. 25^th that 1.4 million were left homeless.  Large tent cities have been erected and the U.S. has distributed 1,600 rolls of plastic sheeting for temporary shelter.  Tarps, blankets, rations, temporary hospitals, medical supplies, and drinking water are being distributed by various agencies as quickly as possible, but the need is great.  There is reported fear that 200,000 could be at risk for starvation.

The country has experienced more than 4,000 aftershocks since the Jan. 13 quake.  Many of the aftershocks are 4 or 5 in magnitude.  Authorities are warning the people it is possible for these aftershocks to last several more months.  Because of the devastation of the earthquakes and these aftershocks, the mental health of the people of El Salvador is very poor.  There is much fear, depression, anxiety attacks and health disorders due to stress.  The government and other agencies are attempting to calm people and issue mental health information.

In addition to mental health issues, there are many injured and the health officials are carefully monitoring a drastic rise in respiratory infections and diarrhea.  According to the Pan American Health Organization the level of destruction to the health sector is much higher following the Feb. 13^th earthquake than after the January 13^th earthquake.

As of Feb. 20, 65 landslides were reported.  There is concern that these may worsen or more may occur when the rainy season begins in May.

The municipality of Verapaz reported preliminary numbers to El Salvador Habitat that 636 families are displaced, 550 homes were destroyed in the urban area, and 1,595 in the rural areas surrounding Verapaz.

After the January 13 earthquake, Habitat for Humanity El Salvador planned to build 700 houses.  This may increase following the February 13^th earthquake, but will depend largely on available funds.  Many of the El Salvador Habitat staff have lost their homes.  The San Vicente office (the region where Verapaz is located had it’s office badly damaged.)  They are currently reviewing all of their building plans to ensure that they are following the recommendations for building safe, disaster resistant structures.  All affiliates will begin repairing Habitat homes within 3 months and will begin building new homes in 3-6 months.

The Government of El Salvador is working on removing rubble.  Individuals are removing rubble from their own lots and the government will then remove the consolidated rubble.  The Government is also making plans for repairing or building schools and fixing sanitation.