Death Toll from Heavy Rains and Flooding in Libya Reaches 3,000, Reports Health Ministry

12 September 2023

The Libyan Ministry of Health announced today that the death toll resulting from heavy rains and flooding in northeastern Libya has reached 3,000.

 

"The current death toll from the disaster in the country has reached 3,000, and there are still thousands of people missing,"  the Al Hadath TV channel  reported, citing the ministry's statement.

 

Earlier reports had indicated around 2,000 victims, but the Libyan Red Crescent now reports that at least 9,000 people are missing due to the floods in northeastern Libya.

 

 

Cyclone Daniel struck northeastern Libya on September 10, bringing gale-force winds, heavy rain, and thunderstorms to cities along the Mediterranean coast. Many homes, hospitals, and other critical civilian infrastructure have been flooded. Derna, in particular, has been severely affected, with two dams destroyed and a dire situation unfolding.

 

In response to this disaster, Libyan authorities have declared three days of national mourning. The country's parliament, based in eastern Libya, has called for an emergency session on Thursday to discuss urgent measures to address the aftermath of the catastrophe.

 

 

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Based on materials from TASS