A strong weather system triggered heavy rainfall that flooded thousands of tents in displacement camps across the Gaza Strip, turning shelters into pools of water.
The disaster has prompted urgent calls to pressure Israel to allow the entry of tents, fuel and other supplies needed to cope with the harsh conditions.
Local officials warned of a “serious threat” to the lives of displaced families and residents amid widespread destruction of basic infrastructure.
The Gaza municipality spokesperson said drainage capacity has fallen by 80% following the destruction of 90% of water pumps and 40% of rainwater channels. Large piles of debris are also blocking the movement of relief teams.
Civil defense authorities urged the international community to intervene immediately and facilitate the entry of temporary housing, warning that camps located in low-lying areas are at risk of total flooding, as well as the collapse of structurally damaged buildings — raising fears of further casualties in an already catastrophic humanitarian situation.
