CNN: Libya Scrambles to Bury Dead after Devastating Floods
Libya is facing the daunting task of burying its dead in Derna, a city along the northern coast. The region was devastated by flooding caused by heavy rainfall that breached two dams, sweeping away homes and leaving bodies strewn in the streets. The death toll has risen to over 6,000 as of Wednesday, according to Saadeddin Abdul Wakil, the health ministry undersecretary of the Unity Government in Tripoli.
Hospitals in the area are overwhelmed, with morgues full and out of service. Despite the urgent need to treat survivors, aid workers are struggling to access the affected regions due to the substantial damage done to infrastructure. Only two out of seven entry points to Derna are currently accessible.
Emergency teams are working tirelessly to search for survivors and recover bodies. Islamic customs dictate that the deceased be buried within three days, and the Martyrs’ committee has been created to identify the missing and facilitate proper burial according to Sharia law and standards.
The storm named Daniel has triggered what appears to be one of the deadliest floods in North Africa. It began as a strong low-pressure system before developing into a tropical-like cyclone and making landfall in Libya. The storm has caused extensive damage in Greece as well.
Libya, which has experienced years of political turmoil and conflict, was ill-prepared for such a catastrophe. Medical professionals on the ground have described the situation as a disaster, with bodies accumulating near hospitals and aid workers struggling to handle the overwhelming number of casualties.
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has called on the global community to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Libya. The IRC is particularly concerned about the protection needs of women and children who have been forced to leave their homes in search of safety.
Foreign aid has started pouring into the country. Tunisia has sent a search and rescue team, while Algeria has dispatched eight army aircraft carrying humanitarian aid. European Union member states, including Germany, Romania, and Finland, have offered assistance, and Italy is sending a civil defense team. The United States, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates have also pledged support.