Attachments
KEY FIGURES
179K people within 500 metres of forest fires across Brazil, Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador
3.6K people killed as a result of gang violence in Haiti in 2024
2.1K people confined due to territorial disputes between NSAGs in Caquetá, Colombia
HAITI: EDUCATION
Haiti continues to face severe challenges as escalating violence disrupts education and displaces families. As schools prepare to reopen on 1 October, students face overcrowded classrooms, with some classes expected to double in size as hundreds of schools remain closed. With many schools still used as shelters for displaced families and ongoing threats from armed groups, thousands of children are being left without access to education. The violence has also triggered a mental health crisis among students, with reports of increased aggression and emotional distress. According to latest figures from the UN Human Rights Office, gang violence has killed 3,661 people since January, with sexual violence and child recruitment rampant. Aid organizations, including Save the Children, are calling for more support to address the education and mental health needs of affected children.
COLOMBIA: ARMED VIOLENCE
In the Bajo Caguán area of the municipality of Cartagena del Chairá, Caquetá, in the south of Colombia, approximately 2,182 people across 17 villages have been confined since 19 September due to a territorial dispute between two non-state armed groups (NSAGs). These communities face high protection risks, including exposure to crossfire, remnants of war and explosive devices. The conflict also forced the displacement of at least 221 people from the village of El Guamo for four days, returning without accompaniment. Food and fuel shortages are severely affecting the communities, increasing the risk of mass displacement toward the municipal centre of Cartagena del Chairá. The territorial dispute has also led to increased social control by NSAGs, with restrictions on movement, coercive community meetings and threats. The situation poses risks not only for Caquetá but also for the departments of Meta, Guaviare, Putumayo and Huila.
SOUTH AMERICA: WILDFIRES UPDATE
As of 24 September 2024, nearly 179,000 people are living within 500 metres of forest fires across Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, according to a UNOSAT analysis. Peru reported a 2.39 per cent increase in hotspots, while Brazil and Bolivia saw significant decreases of 60.79 per cent and 10.76 per cent, respectively. Despite a 2.08 per cent overall decrease, Ecuador experienced a sharp 4600 per cent rise in fire activity between 22 and 24 September. Prolonged droughts and low humidity, worsened by the upcoming La Niña, continue to fuel fires across the region. In Bolivia, firefighting efforts persist, with hopes for rain from an incoming cold front. International aid has been mobilized for Bolivia and Ecuador, including funding from IFRC and the Start Fund Network. Peru remains under a state of emergency, with significant environmental damage and at least 20 deaths due to the fires.
MEXICO: HURRICANE HELENE & JOHN
Between 24 and 26 September, Mexico’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts were hit by three hurricane impacts, with Hurricane John striking twice on the Pacific side and Hurricane Helene affecting the Yucatán Peninsula. John, initially a Category 3 storm, caused significant damage in Oaxaca and Guerrero, including Acapulco, which was already heavily impacted by Hurricane Otis in 2023. Helene, a Category 1 storm, hit Quintana Roo and Yucatán, bringing heavy rains and strong winds. Authorities in affected states, including Michoacán, Colima, and Quintana Roo, activated emergency systems, deployed federal and state response teams, and established temporary shelters for displaced residents, with 110 shelters opened in Oaxaca and 299 in Guerrero. Ongoing heavy rains have led to flooding, landslides, and disruptions to power and communications. The UN System is monitoring the situation and has offered support if needed. Read OCHA’s Flash Update here.
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