Hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals in Gaza are facing the threat of flooding as heavy rains continue to pour over the region. The UN International Organization for Migration reported that necessary materials like sandbags and shelter supplies are being prohibited from entering Gaza.
Torrential downpours hit the Gaza Strip, causing severe flooding in tents where families have sought refuge after enduring two years of conflict. Tragically, a baby girl lost her life due to exposure during the storm. The storm, named Byron, has resulted in 12 fatalities or missing persons, along with the collapse of 13 buildings and flooding in 27,000 tents, according to the media office of the Hamas-led Gaza government.
The IOM highlighted that nearly 795,000 displaced people are at a heightened risk of flooding in low-lying areas filled with debris, where they reside in inadequate shelters. Poor drainage and waste management further increase the risk of diseases breaking out in the region.
The delays in delivering essential materials such as timber, plywood, sandbags, and water pumps to reinforce shelters and tackle flooding in Gaza are due to access restrictions, according to the IOM. Israel contends that it is fulfilling its obligations and blames inefficiencies within aid agencies, as well as alleging theft by Hamas, a claim denied by the group.
In one displaced camp in Nuseirat, central Gaza, families are struggling as ankle-deep water surrounds their tents, causing damage to belongings and making daily tasks challenging. Residents are left grappling with ruined food supplies and deteriorating living conditions.
Bahjat Dardouna recounted how his son’s shelter collapsed during the storm, emphasizing the extent of the devastation and loss experienced by many families. Despite efforts to dispatch supplies like waterproof tents, thermal blankets, and tarpaulins, these aids proved insufficient in withstanding the severe weather conditions.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has severely impacted the region’s infrastructure, leaving over 1.5 million people displaced and in urgent need of resources. The WHO highlighted the health risks faced by thousands of families residing in unsafe coastal areas, emphasizing the urgent need for improved living conditions and protective measures against environmental hazards.
