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October 08, 2005
News from Guatemala
Oct 8, 2005
Dear friends
I know that all of you have been praying for the victims of the recent hurricanes along the Gulf coast of the United States. Many of you have also given to one organization or another to aid those who have lost their homes and in many cases loved ones. In the wake of the recent devastation in the United States, lest we loose sight of other areas of great need we thought you would also want to be informed of what has happened recently in Mexico and Central America so that you might also pray for the thousands affected in this area as a result of hurricane Stan.
In addition to the unrelenting torrential rains that have created numerous problems, especially in the mountainous regions of southern Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador, yesterday (Friday, Oct 7) there was an earthquake in the region. It was a 5.8 on the Richter scale; not major but because of the extremely wet conditions and rain-soaked mountains it cause massive mud-slides which destroyed houses and roads and buried many.
Some of the statistics from Guatemala (from Guatemala’s major Newspaper - Prensa Libre) include:
o 107 communities that are in a critical condition. They are isolated – without food, water, medicines or gasoline. The roads and bridges are washed out and the weather does not permit air traffic in with help. The lines of communication are also out in many of these communities so there may be many more missing or dead.
o At least 153 dead (AP reports 177) plus another (unofficial) 213 in San Marcos, Guatemala
o 53 people reported injured
o Over 1,000 missing
o 288 communities affected
o Over 44,000 people affected
o Over 31,000 refugees in shelters
o 4,300 houses damaged
o At least 97 houses destroyed
Guatemala was the hardest hit but there are many more who have been affected in Mexico and El Salvador as well. See the story in English and photos at Fox News.
Please pray for these who are affected and those who work in these areas. We are very much attached to Guatemala since we are still working there, although I am telecommuting. Unlike the situation along the Gulf coast where the Red Cross and other relief agencies were able to get in quickly, these areas are isolated and help may be slow in coming. Also, Guatemala does not have the resources to mount a massive relief effort like what we saw in Louisiana and Texas. When we find out about any relief efforts we will let you know. Please check back with us periodically.
Your partners in His service
Alvin & Laurie
Alvin & Laurie Thompson
CAM International
Central American Theological Seminary
