Assistance and support for the population affected by the floods in Kichevo, Gostivar and Skopje

The floods that once again affected the Kichevo region, as well as areas in Skopje and Gostivar, have caused serious damage and increased concern among the population. Following heavy rainfall and the overflow of watercourses, a large number of households are facing flooded homes, damaged property, and restricted movement.

The Red Cross of the Republic of North Macedonia immediately deployed teams to the field and actively joined the relief efforts in coordination with the competent institutions. A total of 200 volunteers and staff members of the Red Cross are engaged on the ground, providing support and assistance to the affected population.

In Kichevo, a total of 362 households, or approximately 1,200 people, have been affected by material damage. Of these, 250 people (62 families) have been evacuated and are temporarily accommodated in the sports hall “Hristo Uzunov,” including 61 children, 178 adults and elderly persons, and 11 persons with disabilities.

In addition to Kichevo, residents have also been affected in the Municipality of Gostivar (village of Forino), with around 500 housing units impacted, and in the Municipality of Saraj (villages of Bukovich, Semenishe, and Gorna Arnakija), where 30 housing units have been affected.

As part of the humanitarian intervention, the Red Cross provided and distributed assistance to 400 families, including 10 pallets of water, 820 blankets, 400 hygiene parcels, 250 food parcels, 250 mattresses, baby food and hygiene supplies, and new clothing. In cooperation with the Municipality of Kichevo and local donors, the Red Cross is also providing three hot meals per day for 250 evacuated and temporarily accommodated persons.

Additionally, continuous psycho-social support is being provided to the affected population. Through the psycho-social support hotlines (072-239-077 and 072-239-051), 50 individuals have requested assistance to date.

The Red Cross remains on the ground and ready to provide additional support in accordance with the evolving situation and the needs of the affected population.