Flooding in Libya – A Geographical Perspective

Introduction:

The coastal city of Derna in Libya has been hit by a catastrophic flood caused by the collapse of two dams during heavy rains. The death toll is currently at 11,300, with another 10,100 people reported missing. This disaster has revealed the vulnerability of Libya’s infrastructure, which has been neglected due to ongoing conflicts. Rescue efforts are being hampered by the destruction of roads, and the UN has issued an emergency appeal for £57.5 million ($71.4 million) to address the urgent needs of those affected. International aid and rescue teams have been dispatched to assist with the situation. President Joe Biden has pledged financial assistance to relief organizations and collaborative support.

Full Article: Flooding in Libya – A Geographical Perspective

Devastating Floods Claim Over 11,000 Lives in Derna

In a tragic turn of events, the coastal city of Derna (Darnah) has been hit by calamitous flooding, resulting in the loss of at least 11,300 lives. This catastrophic incident was triggered by the collapse of two dams due to heavy rains. Moreover, there are currently around 10,100 individuals reported as missing in Derna.

The Unforeseen Disaster

On Sunday, the 10th of September, a powerful Mediterranean storm named Daniel wreaked havoc in several parts of eastern Libya. However, Derna suffered the most severe consequences. During the storm, the residents of Derna heard deafening explosions as the two dams outside the city gave way to the floodwaters. The torrential waters rapidly surged down Wadi Derna, a valley that traverses through the city, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake and sweeping people out to sea.

Unfortunately, despite some early warnings, the dam collapses caught everyone off guard. This tragedy not only revealed the immense ferocity of the storm but also exposed Libya’s vulnerability. The country has long been plagued by ongoing conflicts and political divisions, leading to neglected infrastructure such as the dams. Shockingly, these dams, which dated back to the 1970s, had not received proper maintenance despite receiving substantial funding in 2012 and 2013, as highlighted in a report from a state-run audit agency in 2021.

Aided Rescue Efforts Hindered

The rescue operations have been severely impeded by the destruction of roads leading to the affected area, making it arduous to bring in heavy machinery. Local officials fear that the actual death toll may surpass the current reported figures.

The floodwaters have displaced a minimum of 30,000 residents in Derna, as confirmed by the UN’s International Organisation for Migration. Additionally, thousands more in other eastern towns have been compelled to flee their homes due to the disaster. The floods have caused substantial damage to access roads, exacerbating the challenge of international rescue teams and aid reaching the area.

Urgent Assistance and International Aid

To address the pressing needs of the most affected individuals, the UN’s Humanitarian Office (OCHA) has issued an emergency appeal for £57.5 million ($71.4 million). OCHA estimates that the rain and flooding have directly affected approximately 884,000 people across five provinces.

The International Committee of the Red Cross has played a vital role by supplying 6,000 body bags to local authorities and distributing medical supplies, food, and other essential items to the severely affected communities.

Several countries, including Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, and Italy, have dispatched aid and rescue teams to assist with the situation. Italy, for instance, has deployed a naval vessel carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters for search and rescue operations.

International Assistance in the Face of Devastation

President Joe Biden has pledged to offer financial aid to relief organizations and collaborate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support during this harrowing time.

Summary: Flooding in Libya – A Geographical Perspective

Over 11,300 people have died from flooding in the city of Derna in Libya, caused by the collapse of two dams during heavy rains. The storm named Daniel wreaked havoc in eastern Libya, with Derna suffering the worst consequences. Neglected infrastructure and ongoing conflicts have contributed to Libya’s vulnerability to such disasters. Rescue efforts have been hampered by the destruction of roads, and thousands of people have been displaced. The UN has issued an emergency appeal for funds, and countries including Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, and Italy have sent aid and rescue teams. President Joe Biden has promised financial assistance.