Torrential Rains and Flooding Kill 12 in Gaza, Deepening Humanitarian Crisis

Heavy rains have killed at least 12 people in Gaza this week. The victims include a two-week-old baby who died from hypothermia. The storm flooded displacement camps and collapsed already damaged buildings.

The severe weather has compounded the extreme hardship faced by Gaza’s two million displaced residents. According to Associated Press reports, emergency workers warn people to avoid damaged structures due to collapse risks.

Storms Wreak Havoc on War-Torn Infrastructure

The week-long downpour dumped over 150 millimeters of rain on parts of Gaza. This turned dirt pathways into deep mud. It also flooded the fragile tents where most families now live.

A man was killed in Gaza City on Tuesday. His home, previously damaged by Israeli strikes, collapsed from the heavy rainfall. Five other people were injured in that incident.

The remaining ten fatalities occurred last week. Officials state they also died from building collapses caused by the rain and wind. The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed all casualties.

Aid Groups Warn of Critical Shelter Shortage

International aid organizations say not enough shelter materials are reaching Gaza. This is despite a recent ceasefire. They report a desperate need for winter-ready tents and supplies.

The Israeli military agency COGAT states nearly 270,000 tents have entered Gaza recently. However, the Shelter Cluster coalition disputes these figures. They tracked only 68,000 tents entering via U.N. and NGO channels.

Most tents lack proper insulation for winter. The vast majority of buildings in Gaza are damaged or destroyed. Displaced families have few safe places to find shelter from the storms.

The deadly floods underscore the dire living conditions in Gaza. The lack of adequate shelter continues to cost lives. The Gaza floods highlight an urgent need for sustained humanitarian aid and reconstruction.

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How many people died in the Gaza floods?

At least 12 people have been killed. This includes a two-week-old baby who died of hypothermia. The other victims died in building collapses.

What caused the buildings to collapse?

Heavy rainfall and winds caused the collapses. The buildings were already severely weakened from damage sustained during the war. This made them vulnerable to the storm.

Is enough aid getting into Gaza for shelter?

Aid groups say no. They report a critical shortage of winter-ready tents and equipment. Official Israeli figures on aid deliveries are contested by relief agencies on the ground.

Where are displaced people living?

Most live in vast coastal tent camps or among the shells of damaged buildings. These areas lack proper drainage and flood easily. Sanitation is a major concern.

Why was the rainfall so impactful?

Some areas received more than twice the average rainfall for this period. The territory’s infrastructure is devastated. There is no proper system to handle excess water.