Gaza Strip Floods Leave Displaced Palestinians in Dire Conditions

GAZA CITY – Heavy rainfall in the Gaza Strip has led to severe flooding, affecting hundreds of thousands of Palestinians living in displacement camps. The inundation has damaged thousands of tents and shelters, destroying personal belongings and leaving many without essential supplies like blankets and warm clothing.

According to Philippines News Agency, a spokesperson for the Palestinian Civil Defense, numerous low-lying areas across Gaza have been severely affected by the floods. “We received more than a thousand warnings about flooded tents and homes in various governorates of Gaza,” Basal reported. He highlighted the challenges faced by rescue and civil defense teams, including a critical shortage of fuel necessary for operating rainwater pumps and deploying rescue vehicles to the affected zones.

The situation is further complicated by the risk of disease spreading, as stagnant water accumulates in living areas. Additionally, Hosni Muhanna, coordinator of the Union of Gaza Strip Municipalities, reported that rainwater, mixed with sewage, is overflowing from the Sheikh Radwan and Abu Rashid ponds, exacerbating the sanitary crisis in areas north of Gaza City.

The floods represent a significant escalation in the hardships faced by displaced Palestinians in Gaza, underscoring the urgent need for assistance and effective disaster response measures.