Gaza Strip Experiences Widespread Flooding as Winter Storm Hits, Displacing Thousands
The Gaza Strip has been hit by its first winter storm of the season, resulting in severe flooding that has affected approximately 70,000 tents housing displaced Palestinian families. According to Gaza's Government Media Office, the initial losses from the flooding are estimated at around $3 million. The heavy rainfall, which began early Saturday, has caused water levels in several displacement sites to rise by 30 to 40 centimeters, forcing thousands to evacuate their shelters. The Civil Defence agency reported receiving about 1,500 distress calls within 10 hours. Several shelter centers have been completely inundated, and dozens of walls have collapsed, leading to injuries and further damage to already weakened buildings. The Government Media Office holds Israel 'fully responsible' for the disaster, citing continued border closures and restrictions on the entry of essential shelter and reconstruction materials. Vulnerable populations, including premature babies, the elderly, and those with illnesses, face ...
