UNHCR mobilizes support as floods devastate southwestern Poland

Catastrophic flooding is massively impacting southwestern Poland, after intense and heavy rainfall brought by Storm Boris in the past few days. The number of affected communities is high, with a state of natural disaster declared in 22 powiats (districts) in Poland, while other areas are bracing for peaking floods in the coming days.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, extends its sympathies and unwavering support to all those impacted by this disaster. Staff and partners are mobilizing to support the government-led response, to assist those evacuated, locals and refugees alike.

“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. “When refugees from Ukraine fled war and persecution, Poland stood up in exemplary fashion to protect and assist them. We must now stand with the Polish people and flood-affected communities to support the Government-led response.”

UNHCR is mobilizing core relief items and is in close contact with the national and local crisis management teams for quick delivery of assistance to the victims. Initial essential items for 500 families will support flood-impacted residents of Ząbkowice Śląskie, in Dolnośląskie. This includes folding beds, mattresses and pillows, bed linen, and hygiene kits. In addition, emergency supplies provided by UNHCR to the Polish Red Cross for contingency stock are also there to be dispatched.

UNHCR and its local partner Nomada are furthermore ensuring refugees in the affected areas have access to information in a language they understand, translating and disseminating the official alerts and messages. We are also monitoring the situation of refugees living in collective shelters, some of whom may be particularly vulnerable, who were evacuated because of the floods.

UNHCR stands ready to provide further assistance in support of the Government’s response.