FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 11/98 - GUATEMALA (23 November)
The country was severely hit by end-October by Hurricane “Mitch” torrential rains and flooding, particularly affecting the north- and south-eastern parts of the country. By 15 November, about 263 persons had been confirmed dead while 121 were missing. The affected population is estimated at some 105 700 people, of which 21 111 have totally lost their homes or have been inflicted severe damage in their properties. Various zones remained isolated and some of the main connecting roads closed. Preliminary official assessments confirm extensive damage to coffee, tobacco and banana plantations, melons and other fruit and garden vegetables. About 80 percent of the area planted to bananas, a vital foreign exchange earner, has been severely affected, while some 15 percent of the coffee crop has been reportedly lost. Further losses could be incurred as a result of blocked access to coffee farms. Thousands have lost their jobs because of the damage incurred to plantations. Serious damage has also been inflicted to maize, sorghum, paddy, bean, vegetable and various food crops in the important producing areas of Izabal, Zacapa and Jutiapa. Significant damage to irrigation systems in the latter area is reported. Increases in consumer prices for most of the important staples have been reported. The livestock sector also suffered from the effects of the hurricane. Significant losses are reported in the main cattle raising areas of the country. An FAO emergency project for the rehabilitation of agricultural activities in some of the most affected areas is about to be implemented. Large scale emergency assistance is being provided by the international community. Some 65 000 persons will be receiving food aid for six months.
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