2015 U.S. STORMS
SITUATION
On May 6, 2015, scattered, severe thunderstorms developed across portions of the Central and Southern Plains. The National Weather Service identified at least 46 possible tornadoes, 28 damaging wind events and 60 large hail reports—the majority of which were located in KS, NE and OK. In addition, very heavy rains brought flash flooding to some of these areas.
Initial reports indicate isolated or localized damage from the storms in Kansas and Nebraska. Preliminary reports from Oklahoma indicate 200 homes possibly destroyed and an additional 2,000 homes possibly damaged across all affected areas of the state Areas near Oklahoma City. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported.
Based on the weather forecast for the weekend, additional storms could hit the mid-section of the country.
PDA Response
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) has reached out to mid-councils in the affected areas to offer the care of the broader church and is standing by ready to assist as needed and requested. PDA is still hosting volunteers in the Moore, Oklahoma area from the 2013 tornadoes.
NEPAL EARTHQUAKE APRIL 2015
Situation
Thousands are dead or injured from the massive earthquake and aftershocks that shook Nepal and neighboring countries on April 25th. The quake, the worst in more than 80 years, struck just west of the capital of Kathmandu and destroyed towns and mountainous villages. The government of Nepal has officially requested international assistance and declared a state of emergency.
PDA Response
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance’s (PDA) local partners through ACT Alliance have been working in Nepal for several years and are on the ground assisting many who have survived the quake by distributing immediate life-saving supplies such as water, food, shelter and medication.
PDA is committed to the long-term response. As long-term recovery plans are developed, PDA will accompany and further financially support our partners in the area to ensure a comprehensive recovery is sustained.