British Red Cross launches Libya Floods Appeal

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• Spokespeople available in the UK and in the region.

The British Red Cross has launched an emergency fundraising appeal in response to the devastating flooding in Libya.

More than 2,000 people are reported to have died in the disaster, with thousands more missing. The number of people affected is expected to rise in the coming days.

Libyan Red Crescent volunteers were the first on the ground, evacuating people and providing first aid and search and rescue efforts in close co-ordination with local authorities.

Richard Blewitt, Executive Director of International for the British Red Cross, said:

“The floods in Libya have caused a shocking level of destruction, thousands are thought to have died and thousands more are still missing.

“The priority right now is search and rescue so we can save as many lives as possible. Red Cross teams are responding, providing first aid to those that need it, searching for the missing and helping to reunite families.

“However, the situation is extremely dangerous and sadly, three Libyan Red Crescent volunteers lost their lives while trying to save the lives of others. Our thoughts are with their families and all the families who have lost loved ones in these floods.

“We know times are hard for everyone right now but if you’re able to, please donate to our emergency appeal to raise urgent funds for those affected.”

To donate, please go to: 

Online: https://donate.redcross.org.uk/appeal/libya-floods-appeal

Postal donations: British Red Cross, LIBYA FLOODS APPEAL, 44 Moorfields, London, EC2Y 9AL  

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Notes to editors

About the British Red Cross

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers across 192 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders.