UN Calls for Urgent Help for Malawi Cyclone Victims

The United Nations are calling for $70.6 million to help more than a million people who were affected by Cyclone Freddy in Malawi.

The storm lead to the death of hundreds of people and displaced more than 650,000 survivors.

The flash appeal will provide shelter, nutrition, health, water, and sanitation for those hardest hit by the crisis, the U.N. said.

The U.N. indicated the funds would enable it to work swiftly in support of the Malawi government-led response to assist communities affected by Cyclone Freddy and cholera.

In a statement, U.N. resident coordinator in Malawi Rebecca Adda-Dontoh said Malawians have mobilized to support one another in this time of tremendous need, and the appeal aimed to step up solidarity as the international community.

The cyclone demolished many bridges and cut off roads in Malawi, making many areas reachable only by boats and aircraft.