More than a week of extremely heavy rains in several Central American countries has led to flooding and landslides. El Salvador declared a state of emergency on 14 October 2011 and appealed to the international community for assistance on 16 October 2011.

According to the United Nations, more than 150,000 people in El Salvador have been affected by the natural disaster and over 32,000 had to be evacuated. Almost 21,500 are living in emergency accommodation and over 10,000 have taken refuge with their families and neighbours. Thirty-two people have lost their lives.

There is a particular need for hygiene articles, blankets, cooking utensils and other equipment.

The Federal Foreign Office is contributing 100,000 euro to a Caritas aid project. The project is to be implemented cooperatively by Caritas International and the local Caritas associations. The aid supplies will be procured locally and delivered directly to affected families.