ReliefWeb

Sudden unseasonal rains in the districts of Cova Lima, Manufahi and Viqueque in the south western part of Timor-Leste had caused severe flooding since 16 June. There was substantial damage to infrastructure including the destruction of key roads, bridges, stores and housing with livestock, which resulted in the displacement of about 450 to 600 villagers. Communication with Same and Manufahi was cut off. An estimated 1,000 hectares of crops belonging to 1,500 owners were severely damaged. About 125 houses were destroyed. (OCHA, 27 Jun 2003)