Our colleagues with the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) are reporting that Hurricane Matthew has severely affected southern parts of Haiti, especially the departments of Grand Anse and South, where the wind caused severe damage.

The Government of Haiti estimates that at least 350,000 people are in need of immediate humanitarian assistance, although it is expected that number may rise as assessments are carried out. At least five people are reported to have died. [Note: the figure of 108 dead was confirmed by Haitian authorities since the declaration].

Authorities also report that over 15,600 people were evacuated and nearly 1,900 homes were flooded. Hundreds were damaged or destroyed.

Today, the UN Disaster Assessment Coordination team and the Government of Haiti hope to conduct a joint assessment with other humanitarian partners. Communication with and access to the worst affected areas remain extremely limited.

The World Food Programme, the World Health Organization and UNICEF, along with NGO partners are all scaling up support for critical shelter, water, sanitation and food assistance.

Meanwhile, the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) is supporting the Haitian authorities in their assessment and reconnaissance efforts, especially towards the most affected areas in the south western tip of Haiti, and the cities of Jeremie and Les Cayes.

MINUSTAH has deployed assets by air and road, while its police and military components have been helping to clear debris from the roadways.