Agros Blog

Last month, heavy torrential rains passed across Central America and Mexico, affecting all of the countries where Agros works. Unfortunately, these storms also brought flooding and crop damage to Agros communities in El Salvador and Nicaragua. We have been in close communication with all Agros Country Directors as they have evaluated the storms’ impact. They are now formulating plans to support these communities through this time.

The initial damage estimates are:

El Salvador:
Approximately 75% of the bean crop has been lost in two communities so far, and corn crops were also badly damaged. Homes and latrines have suffered water damage as well.

Basic grain crops damaged in three communities: El Milagro, San Diego de Tenango and Nuevo Renacer
Homes damaged in three communities: La Esperanza, San Diego de Tenango and Nuevo Renacer

Nicaragua:
The northern Matagalpa region was hit especially hard by these storms, particularly coffee and corn crops. Health is also a concern, as many are suffering from related respiratory illnesses.

Basic grain crops damaged in three communities: San José, Tierra Nueva and El Edén
Productive crops damaged in three communities: Nueva Esperanza, San José and El Edén
Homes damaged in one community: Tierra Nueva
Health concerns in four communities: Nueva Esperanza, San José, San Marcos and Luz del Mañana
Access roads damaged in three communities: San José, Tierra Nueva and El Edén

Guatemala:
No significant damages reported.

Honduras:
No significant damages reported.

Mexico:
No significant damages reported.

Country Directors and staff are working with the local authorities to access available local resources to help the communities replant.

Agros International’s priorities are to make certain that essential food security remains in all villages; that income generation continues; and to ensure access to needed healthcare and housing repairs as necessary. Agros International has emergency funds that will be leveraged towards this effort; local authorities are making resources available; and if needed Agros will launch an appeal to raise additional funds to cover the unexpected losses.