Libya: Storm Daniel triggers severe rain and floods, thousands feared dead; Know what happened
Libyan officials are expressing grave concerns as thousands of people are feared dead due to the severe rain and flooding caused by Storm Daniel. In the city of Derna alone, over 2,000 reported deaths have occurred, with an additional 5,000 to 6,000 individuals still unaccounted for. However, the exact figures remain unverified by independent sources, and the origin of this data is unclear.
Collapsed Dams and Havoc
The heavy rainfall in Derna subjected the dams to immense pressure, leading to their collapse. This devastating event resulted in the destruction of homes, roads, and even bridges. Entire neighborhoods were swept away by the floodwaters, ultimately ending up in the sea.
Widespread Impact
The flooding catastrophe extended beyond Derna, affecting several cities and villages, including Al-Bayda, Derna, Al-Marj, Tobruk, Takenis, Al-Bayada, Battah, and areas along the eastern coast, all the way to Benghazi. Osama Hamad, the head of Libya's eastern parliament-backed government, described the situation as «catastrophic and unprecedented.”
Social media platforms have been flooded with harrowing footage of submerged cars, collapsed buildings, and torrents of water inundating the streets. Derna faced a severe communication blackout, with pictures from the Red Crescent revealing streets submerged under the floodwaters.
Tragic Consequences
Osama Aly, the head of Libya's Emergency and Ambulance authority, explained that after the dam collapse, the floodwaters surged toward a mountainous coastal area near Derna. Homes in valleys along the flood's path were washed away, with powerful currents carrying vehicles and debris.
Negligence and Lack of Preparedness
Authorities are facing criticism for their lack of preparation and
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