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Salvadorean president declares state of emergency due to flood rains

In accordance with the presidential decree, the police, the military and the civil defense are empowered to carry out forcible evacuation of people from the affected areas

MEXICO CITY, October 15 (Itar-Tass) —— Salvadorean President Mauricio Funes has announced a state of emergency due flood rains. In a speech on the national radio and television the head of state said on Friday a series of measures had been taken aimed at providing immediate assistance to the population.

The president explained his decision to declare a state of emergency followed floods and mudslides, caused by days of torrential rains in different parts of the country. Six people died, three were reported missing and more than 6.5 thousand people were evacuated from endangered areas. The elements caused considerable material damage to the infrastructure and housing sector in El Salvador.

Funes has pledged that "all free budgetary funds" will be used to assist the victims and mitigate the impact of the disaster. "If this proves insufficient, then we shall ask for help from the international community," the president said.

In accordance with the presidential decree, the police, the military and the civil defense are empowered to carry out forcible evacuation of people from the affected areas. Funes urged the inhabitants to cooperate with the authorities in order to "to reduce the risk to human life and prevent further tragedies."

The president declared the suspension of classes at schools throughout the country.