Floods Devastate Libya’s East, Death Toll Rises to 6,000 with Thousands Missing
The humanitarian crisis in Libya continues to escalate as the death toll from the floods that ravaged swathes of the country’s east has risen to 6,000, according to media reports quoting a government official. The Libyan National Army (LNA), which controls the eastern administration, has confirmed that 5300 bodies have been counted in Derna alone, with this number expected to rise further. Derna, located 250 km east of Benghazi, has been the worst affected area, with as many as 6,000 people missing.
Storm Daniel Brings Catastrophic Flooding
The unprecedented amount of rain brought by Storm Daniel has led to the collapse of two dams in Libya’s northeast regions, causing large tracts of land to be inundated. Dry river beds have turned into raging rivers, drowning houses and establishments on their banks. Entire neighborhoods are believed to have been washed away in the city, according to authorities. At least 37 residential buildings are confirmed to have been swept away into the sea.
Affected Areas and Damage
The floods have affected several cities, including Al-Bayda, Al-Marj, Tobruk, Takenis, Al-Bayada, and Battah, as well as the eastern coast all the way to Benghazi. Three bridges were destroyed, and the flowing water carried away entire neighborhoods, eventually depositing them into the sea. This is a dire situation that requires immediate attention from international aid organizations.
International Response
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) office in Libya has voiced its concern for thousands of people missing or dead as a result of the floods in the country’s eastern region. The UNHCR is responding with the transfer of urgent relief items, including blankets, hygiene kits, and solar lamps, to cover the immediate needs of 5,000 affected people.
UAE Sends Relief Material
The UAE has sent 150 tonnes of food, relief, and medical supplies to Benina airport in Benghazi. Search and rescue teams equipped with machinery have also been dispatched to help authorities on the ground as they deal with the impact of the floods. This initiative comes under the directives of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to send urgent relief aid and search and rescue teams to Libya.
Conclusion
The humanitarian crisis in Libya is a stark reminder of the devastating effects of natural disasters and the importance of international cooperation in responding to such crises. The death toll from the floods continues to rise, with thousands still missing. It is imperative that aid organizations, governments, and individuals come together to provide relief and support to those affected by this disaster.