Devastating Floods in Eastern Libya: Thousands Feared Dead as Storm Daniel Wreaks Havoc
Tragedy Strikes Eastern Libya
In a heart-wrenching disaster, eastern Libya finds itself grappling with the aftermath of Storm Daniel, which has left thousands feared dead and entire neighborhoods submerged in floodwaters. This natural catastrophe has not only caused unimaginable loss but has also presented a monumental humanitarian challenge.
Derna’s Dire Situation
The city of Derna, in particular, has borne the brunt of this calamity. Raging torrents breached two dams, unleashing a torrential deluge that swallowed buildings and swept them into the sea. Othman Abdul Jalil, the health minister and spokesperson for the U.N.-recognized government in western Libya, reported the grim reality – at least 2,000 lives lost and counting.
A Grim Projection
The situation in Derna remains dire, with the death toll expected to rise significantly. Abdul Jalil somberly predicts that the final count may reach a staggering 10,000. However, as large portions of the city remain inaccessible, the true extent of the tragedy remains shrouded in uncertainty. Derna, once home to an estimated 90,000 residents, now faces an uncertain future.
An Urgent Plea
Abdul Jalil issues a heartfelt appeal to friendly nations for assistance in this time of desperate need. The field hospital, overwhelmed by the scale of the disaster, is now a somber repository of the deceased.
Families Torn Apart
Tamer Ramadan, head of the Libyan delegation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, reports a harrowing statistic – up to 10,000 people are still missing in the five most affected cities. The enormity of this tragedy is beyond comprehension.
Humanitarian Efforts and International Support
The Libyan Red Crescent, on the front lines of this crisis, has already lost three of its members, with a fourth still unaccounted for. The urgency for help cannot be overstated.
Infrastructure and a Divided Nation
Libya’s already fragile infrastructure has been dealt another devastating blow by this natural disaster. A nation torn by civil conflict since 2011, it now grapples with the consequences of this catastrophic flood. Divided between rival governments in the east and the west, Libya’s unity has never seemed more distant.
A Call for Unity
General Khalifa Hifter, leader of the Libyan National Army (LNA), calls for solidarity. He urges all parts of the country to come together and support the affected cities and towns, especially those in the Green Mountain area, including Derna.
International Assistance
In a show of solidarity, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Jordan, supporters of the LNA, have dispatched search and rescue teams and medical personnel. Turkey, traditionally aligned with the Government of National Accord in the west, has also sent aid in the form of search and rescue teams and humanitarian supplies.
Immediate Needs
Asmahan Belaoun, a member of parliament with ties to Derna, emphasizes urgent priorities: establishing a functional telecommunication network and deploying helicopters for search and rescue operations. Moreover, as the winter months approach, rebuilding the dams is essential to prevent future flooding.
International Response
Ambassador Richard Norland, the U.S. special envoy for Libya, pledges support. The U.S. embassy is actively coordinating with the United Nations and Libyan authorities, providing essential funding to kickstart relief efforts. Additionally, Libyan Americans are extending their hand in support, eager to contribute to these vital relief initiatives.
In the face of this unparalleled catastrophe, eastern Libya stands resilient, and the world watches, united in solidarity and compassion.
Photo Credit: Getty Images,
