Europe (Washington Insider Magazine) —Catastrophic flooding is severely impacting southwestern Poland after intense rainfall brought by Storm Boris. The situation is dire, with a state of natural disaster declared in 22 districts (powiats). Many communities are bracing for more flooding in the coming days.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) expresses its sympathy and support for those affected. UNHCR staff and partners are mobilizing to assist the government-led response, providing aid to evacuated individuals, including locals and refugees.
“UNHCR stands in solidarity with Poland and all affected by these devastating floods,” said Kevin J. Allen, UN Refugee Coordinator for the Ukraine Situation and UNHCR Representative in Poland. He emphasized the need to support Polish communities, which have previously welcomed refugees fleeing war and persecution.
UNHCR is mobilizing core relief items and coordinating with national and local crisis management teams for swift delivery to victims. Initial assistance for 500 families in Ząbkowice Śląskie includes folding beds, mattresses, bed linen, and hygiene kits. Additionally, emergency supplies have been sent to the Polish Red Cross for contingency stock.
To ensure refugees have access to critical information, UNHCR and local partner Nomada are translating and disseminating official alerts in understandable languages. They are also monitoring the situation of refugees in collective shelters, some of whom are particularly vulnerable due to the flooding.
UNHCR stands ready to provide further assistance in support of the Polish government’s response.
