On November 3, 2020, Hurricane Eta struck Nicaragua as a powerful Category 4 storm, bringing sustained winds of up to 225 km/h and causing widespread destruction across the country and the broader Latin American region. In many areas, limited public storm warnings left families with little time to prepare as the hurricane rapidly intensified.
As Eta battered the region, violent winds ripped roofs from homes, while storm surge and waves crashed through communities, washing away food supplies and personal belongings. The storm devastated crops, cutting off livelihoods for already vulnerable families. Thousands of people fled to higher ground, and churches and schools opened as emergency shelters. Hurricane Eta affected an estimated 2.5 million people across the region and displaced more than 300,000 from their homes.
Humanitarian needs remained severe even after the storm moved on. Communities already facing rising poverty and crime linked to the economic fallout of COVID-19 suffered further losses as families lost safe housing, access to clean drinking water, and reliable sources of income. Reports of people calling out for help during and after the storm underscored the depth and urgency of the crisis.
In advance of the storm, World Renew and local partners across Nicaragua and Latin America helped families prepare by organizing evacuations and establishing emergency shelters. Following Eta’s landfall, partners continue responding while observing COVID-19 precautions, distributing essential relief items in affected communities.
Although the storm spared many lives, millions of people now face an uncertain road to recovery. Families across Latin America continue to rebuild amid ongoing challenges, and sustained prayer and support remain critical as communities seek strength and hope in the aftermath of Hurricane Eta.
Help Us Prepare for the Future
World Renew is continuing to respond by providing food, shelter items, and hygiene kits for families throughout Latin America affected by Hurricanes Eta and Iota.
But each year, more communities face the aftermath of destruction caused by earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and other storms, as well as conflict and upheaval.
Gifts like yours are a lifeline for families as they face loss or uncertainty after a disaster. By making a recurring gift to World Renew’s International Disaster Response program, you can ensure help is ready when and where it’s needed most.
Give today and choose the monthly giving option. Thank you for your generosity!
