The bodies of 3,958 people have been recovered and identified, but the death toll is expected to rise.

The floods were compounded by the collapse of two dams in the eastern city of Derna, which was the hardest hit. The WHO is working with the Libyan Ministry of Health to track the dead and missing and to restore health services in the affected areas.

"This is a disaster of epic proportions," said Dr Ahmed Zouiten, WHO Representative in Libya. “We are saddened by the unspeakable loss of thousands of souls. Our thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, as well as with all of the affected communities. We are committed to providing the necessary support to restore health services for the affected population in eastern Libya.”

The WHO has appealed for international assistance to help the Libyan government respond to the disaster. The organization is also providing medical supplies and equipment to the affected areas. (ILKHA)