UN to launch Haiti flash appeal

The United Nations is planning to launch a flash appeal for Haiti, following the passage of Hurricane Ike.



Port au Prince has been hit by four major storms in as many weeks, and the latest, Hurricane Ike, has claimed more than 60 lives so far.



While the country escaped a direct hit from the storm, torrential rains caused flooding in a number of areas.



The weather is hampering relief efforts for those still struggling with the effects of Hurricane Hanna, which struck late last week.



Hundreds died in the flooding and mudslides, particularly in the northern city of Gonaives.



The UN\'s emergency relief co-ordinator, John Holmes, said they would appeal for tens of millions of dollars from the donors for the various UN agencies and NGOs.