Heavy Rains Aggravate Conditions for Evacuated Residents of Gaza, Officials Warn
Heavy rains over the last seven days have intensified the already dire living conditions of the hundreds of thousands of evacuated Palestinians in the territory, as reported by relief organizations.
"Horrendous" Conditions Creates Severe Dangers
A official characterized the weather overnight as "horrendous", with downpours so severe that around 15cm (6in) of water accumulated on the ground.
"Last night was truly terrible for the residents. The downpours were so powerful... And the gales were so powerful," stated the official.
Authorities voice grave concern that children living in tents in soaked clothing will contract hypothermia and additional illnesses.
Deaths and Widespread Loss
The health ministry have confirmed that one baby has succumbed from hypothermia and a minimum of 11 other people have died in building collapses caused by the severe weather.
Further statements suggest a increased number of casualties. Authorities reported that several residential buildings had collapsed completely and dozens had been partly destroyed.
- Almost 55,000 families impacted by flooding.
- More than 40 designated refuges inundated.
- Numerous individuals forced to relocate again.
Assistance Distribution Deemed Not Enough
Agencies have stepped up shipments of shelter, bedding and clothing after the halt in hostilities began, but they emphasize there is continues to be not enough aid getting in.
"We are working relentlessly to deliver that relief and to distribute it, but the scale of the needs is so immense that we continue to see thousands of families and children who are genuinely enduring hardship nightly," warned one official.
Ongoing Challenges and Truce Plans
The next stage of the ceasefire includes plans for the reconstruction of Gaza, along with future administration, the pullback of military forces, and other conditions.
Humanitarian organizations have stressed the necessity for "increased and sustained relief to address urgent and long-term requirements."
The war was sparked by an assault in the autumn of 2023. Subsequent actions have led to a high number of lives lost in the area, according to health ministry reports.
