Devastating Floods in Libya’s Derna Claim Over 5,300 Lives, Massive Rescue Efforts Underway
Emergency workers in Libya’s eastern city of Derna are currently engaged in massive rescue efforts following devastating floods caused by Mediterranean Storm Daniel. The death toll in Derna alone has exceeded 5,300, although the number of missing persons is estimated to be around 10,000. The destruction and loss of life highlight the vulnerability of a nation that has been plagued by chaos for over a decade.
The floods, which occurred on Sunday night, resulted in the collapse of dams outside the city, leading to a torrent of flash floods that washed away entire neighborhoods. The catastrophic event has left Derna residents in utter shock and despair, with many bodies still trapped under rubble or swept out into the Mediterranean Sea.
Although the National Meteorological Centre issued early warnings 72 hours before the storm, the infrastructure in Derna was unable to cope with the sheer volume of rainwater. Poor maintenance and a lack of preventive measures have been cited as contributing factors to the disaster.
The immediate response to the catastrophe has been challenging, with access roads to Derna heavily damaged. However, local emergency responders, along with assistance from the Red Crescent and neighboring countries, are working tirelessly to search for survivors and retrieve bodies. Inflatable boats are being used to navigate the flooded areas and recover victims.
The ongoing conflict and factionalism in Libya have worsened the situation. Derna was previously controlled by Islamic militant groups and was only recently captured by military commander Khalifa Hifter. The mistrust between different factions has complicated the coordination of relief efforts, potentially hindering the post-disaster recovery process.
International aid is slowly starting to arrive, with countries like Egypt, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates sending humanitarian aid and rescue teams. The United States has also pledged emergency funds and is coordinating with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.
While flooding is not uncommon during the rainy season in Libya, the severity of the destruction caused by Storm Daniel is unprecedented. The devastation in Derna and other eastern Libyan towns underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness measures.
As the rescue and recovery operations continue in Derna, the focus remains on saving lives and providing necessary aid to those affected. The people of Libya are left to grapple with the immense loss and devastation brought about by this natural disaster, hoping for a brighter future and the international assistance needed to rebuild their shattered communities.
