User:AFS4267/Effects of Hurricane Mitch in Honduras

Refugee Crisis
Millions of Hondurans were left homeless as a result of Mitch. The most substantial reconstruction efforts took place in Honduras and neighboring Nicaragua. Hundreds of refugee centers each holding thousands of displaced Hondurans were set up in cities. However, many of these centers were ineffective at providing food and resources. Part of this was due to confusion between the government, churches, and local commerce groups over how supplies were to be allocated and distributed. There were significant resources intended for refugees, but authorities often hoarded it in heavily-guarded warehouses. The entire hurricane and subsequent refugee crisis did bring to light the problems Hondurans faced relating to contagious diseases, and the country received considerable medical attention in the aftermath of Mitch.

Rural Regions
Mitch caused substantial damage to the nation's agricultural industry, particularly in areas inhabited by mestizo s and indigenous groups. Bananas, plantains, and manioc, all of which are historically important export crops for Honduras, were all essentially destroyed, as were about 80% of rice farms. The destruction of crops also led to malnourishment and starvation for Hondurans. Despite the catastrophic losses, Mitch may have actually benefited some rural populations because it forced a change in how groups use their land. A study published in 2011 analyzed land use among rural populations before and after Mitch. It found that the changes in land composition led to more equitable land use, delayed deforestation, and reacted better to flooding.