The city of Derna in Libya has been plunged into chaos and grief after catastrophic floods swept through its streets on September 10. Triggered by Hurricane Daniel, the deluge has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian disaster, with the Libyan Red Crescent reporting at least 11,300 deaths and more than 10,000 people still missing.
Survivors are grappling with the overwhelming loss as they search tirelessly for loved ones amidst the rubble. The once vibrant historical city now bears the scars of destruction, with debris littering the coastline and buildings reduced to ruins. Exclusive footage from September 14 shows residents combing through the wreckage, hoping to find signs of life or recover the bodies of those who perished.
Amid the devastation, there is a growing fear of epidemics. Bodies have begun to decompose in the hot climate, raising concerns about the spread of diseases. Health workers and international aid organizations are urgently needed to prevent a secondary crisis from unfolding.
“Derna is the origin of civilization,” reads a poignant piece of graffiti on a surviving wall, a stark reminder of the city’s rich cultural heritage now overshadowed by tragedy. The community’s resilience is evident as neighbors and volunteers come together in the face of immense adversity.
The disaster has highlighted the pressing need for infrastructure development and disaster preparedness in the region. As the global community watches, there is an outpouring of support and calls for immediate humanitarian aid to assist the victims and aid in the recovery efforts.
The people of Derna continue to hope for miracles amidst the ruins, their spirits unbroken despite the monumental challenges ahead. The world stands in solidarity with Libya during this harrowing time, emphasizing the shared responsibility to support those affected by natural calamities.
Reference(s):
Libya flood: Derna residents searching for bodies by the sea
cgtn.com
