Heavy flooding has displaced some 7,500 Iraqis in northern and south-eastern Iraq, while some 25,000 in northern Iraq have been forced to leave their homes since rainfall began on February 2.
Ferdous Al Abadi, a spokeswoman for the Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS), told reporters that donations were still crucial, and that at least 15,000 blankets were needed, along with medical supplies and heaters.
Abadi stressed that the situation was dire, saying, "These people can't return, even after the water is drained."
He added that food supplies could only be expected to last for a few more days in some areas; the IRCS had urged the support of international NGO's.
The IRCS has established make-shift shelters for the refugees.
"We've improvised camps in these governorates," Al Abadi said.
"Other families are taking refuge at relatives' homes or in abandoned government buildings or schools," he added.
The security and political situation in Iraq has seriously hampered efforts to provide many of the displaced flood victims with aid.
Poor sanitation has also been the cause of widespread disease, especially amongst children.
"Dozens of cases of diarrhea and vomiting have been treated among children in these areas," said Dr Saleh Ibraheem, volunteer clinician in Salahddine governorate.
"The main reason is the poor sanitation and lack of clean water in places in which they are taking refuge."
© 2006 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
