The US Embassy chargé d’affaires Tony Greubel yesterday announced the approval of $212,365 in immediate assistance to support people affected by volcanic eruptions and tsunami waves in Tonga.
In a statement, the US Embassy said the USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance was working to address emergency shelter needs and was providing safe drinking water, hygiene kits, and other necessities to help Tongans affected by the eruptions and tsunami.
“USAID has disaster experts in the region who are co-ordinating response efforts with the Government of Tonga and humanitarian partners,” the US Embassy said.
“Once needs assessments are completed and telecommunications are restored, we will know the full extent of the damage.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Tonga.”
The US embassy said US AID worked year-round to help communities in Tonga prepare for and be more resilient to natural disasters.
“Through existing programs, USAID partners have pre-positioned hygiene kits for distribution in case of disaster; maintain air and sea transport to bring relief supplies to people on all affected islands and in remote communities; and are prepared to provide emergency telecommunications.”
