Gaza City:Gaza Rescue operations in Gaza have been severely hindered as heavy rainfall flooded tens of thousands of displacement tents, resulting in five fatalities, including three children. The Civil Defense in Gaza City and central Gaza reported that a lack of spare parts and fuel has caused most emergency vehicles to become inoperative, complicating efforts to address the crisis.
According to Palestine Info Center, the flooding, which affected approximately 70,000 tents within 12 hours of the storm's arrival, has impacted an estimated 350,000 displaced Palestinians. The preliminary losses are estimated to be around $3 million. The floods have left thousands of families without essential belongings such as mattresses and blankets, exposing them to harsh weather conditions.
The situation has been exacerbated by the collapse of a sand embankment at the Ard al-Ribat camp in Deir al-Balah, leading to the deaths and injuries of several displaced individuals. In response, the Civil Defense has warned against seeking shelter near sand embankments during heavy rainfalls. The Ministry of Social Development has called for urgent assistance, including mobile homes and winter supplies, to provide safer and more durable shelter options.
The Gaza Government Media Office has accused Israel of contributing to the crisis by restricting the entry of shelter materials and other necessary supplies. Civil Defense has made an appeal to the international community for support in facilitating the entry of essential rescue and relief equipment to mitigate the ongoing humanitarian emergency.