A state of emergency has been declared in the Marshall Islands in the wake of flooding that displaced hundreds of islanders and damaged dozens of homes in the two urban centres.
Earlier this month, the Marshalls was pounded on three separate days by high waves caused by storm surges that coincided with high tides.
Many homes were destroyed and at least 600 family members were displaced and sought refuge in government-designated shelters, churches, and with family members.
The Marshall Islands President, Litokwa Tomeing, announced the state of emergency on Christmas Eve.
Our correspondent in the Marshall Islands, Giff Johnson, explains why the measure was introduced by the President.
"I think the main reason that the President, and the Cabinet approved and the President signed the Proclamation for the State of Emergency was that it allows the government to to tap into a joint US-Marshall Islands disaster relief fund to help people with some rebuilding and clean up efforts and that sort of thing."
