Flooding in Libya: hundreds dead, thousands missing

Floods caused by Storm Daniel, which swept across the coast hit dams outside Derna city, triggering flash floods in Wadi Derna River

TRIPOLI, Libya – Hundreds of people have died and thousands are missing after flooding in the Libyan city of Derna in the east of the country.

The floods were caused by Storm Daniel, which swept across the coast Sunday night

Dams outside Derna collapsed, triggering flash floods in Wadi Derna, a river that flows through the city.

The floods destroyed at least 20% of the city, including homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

Many people were trapped in their homes or swept away by the waters.

Rescue workers are still searching for survivors, but the death toll is expected to rise. The government has appealed for international assistance to help relief efforts.

The floods have caused extensive damage and chaos in Derna. The city is still suffering the effects of the disaster, and it is unclear how long it will take to recover.

According to Anas El Gomati, founder and director of the Sadeq Institute, a Tripoli-based public policy think tank, the presence of two rival governments in Libya has complicated authorities’ efforts to deal with the crisis.

The Medical Center of Bayda, the main hospital, was flooded and patients had to be evacuated, the center said on Facebook.

Other affected towns included Susa, Marj and Shahatt.

In the meantime, the international community has come together to help the people of Derna.

Humanitarian organizations are providing food, water, shelter and medical care to those affected by the floods.