Tripoli, Libya – (African Boulevard News) – Fears are mounting of a surging death toll in the devastating flood disaster that has hit Libya. The Mediterranean coastal city of Derna was struck by a colossal flash flood late Sunday, leaving witnesses stunned and likening the deluge to a tsunami. The catastrophe was triggered after two upstream dams burst under the weight of the torrential rains brought by Storm Daniel.
The flash flood has caused widespread chaos and destruction in Derna, with reports of houses being swept away, roads being washed out, and entire neighborhoods being submerged. As emergency response teams struggle to reach the affected areas due to the treacherous conditions, concerns are growing over the number of casualties.
According to local authorities, at least 20 people have been confirmed dead as a result of the flood, with dozens more reported missing. However, as search and rescue operations continue in the devastated region, it is feared that the death toll could rise significantly.
“The situation is dire and the potential for further loss of life is a grave concern. We are doing everything we can to support the affected communities and provide assistance to those in need,” said Ahmed Al-Mabrouk, a spokesperson for the Libyan Red Crescent Society.
The government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas and has mobilized resources to aid in the recovery efforts. The military has been deployed to assist with the evacuation of stranded residents and to provide essential supplies to those affected.
Residents who were fortunate enough to escape the initial deluge are now grappling with the aftermath. Many have lost their homes and possessions, and are seeking shelter in makeshift camps set up by humanitarian organizations. As the floodwaters recede, the full extent of the damage is becoming apparent.
Experts believe that climate change is exacerbating the severity and frequency of extreme weather events, such as the flash flood in Derna. With rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure, cities like Derna are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of heavy rainfall.
The tragic events in Derna serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and infrastructure development in Libya. Efforts must be made to strengthen early warning systems, invest in resilient infrastructure, and enhance emergency response capabilities to mitigate the impact of future disasters.
As the search for survivors continues and the affected communities begin the long road to recovery, the international community stands ready to provide assistance and support to the people of Libya in their time of need. Together, we must work towards building a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
