Floods cause devastation in Libya, thousands feared dead

The catastrophe, which struck over the weekend, has left entire neighborhoods swept away, homes wrecked, and a grim death toll that could potentially reach as high as 2,000, according to local sources.

The city of Derna, which had experienced turmoil in the past due to rival armed groups, bore the brunt of the destruction.

This city, like much of Libya, has struggled with crumbling and inadequate infrastructure amidst the chaos that has plagued the nation for more than a decade. Libya remains deeply divided between two rival administrations, each backed by militias and foreign governments.

As of late Monday, the confirmed death toll from the flooding stood at 61, according to health authorities. However, this figure did not account for Derna, which had become inaccessible due to the floodwaters. Many of the thousands missing are feared to have been carried away by the surging waters.

Disturbing videos shared by residents of Derna online depict scenes of major devastation. Entire residential areas have been obliterated along a river that cuts through the city center. Multi-story apartment buildings that once stood safely away from the river now partially lie collapsed in the mud.

Prime Minister Ossama Hamad of the east Libyan government stated that a staggering 2,000 people are feared dead in Derna, with thousands more missing. He officially declared Derna a disaster zone.

Ahmed al-Mosmari, a spokesperson for the country's armed forces based in the east, disclosed in a news conference that the death toll in Derna had surpassed 2,000, and an alarming 5,000 to 6,000 people were reported missing. Al-Mosmari attributed the catastrophe to the collapse of two nearby dams, which triggered a lethal flash flood.

This devastating natural disaster has thrust Libya further into turmoil, as the nation grapples with the immense loss of life and destruction of property. International assistance and solidarity are likely to be crucial in the days ahead as Libya faces the daunting task of recovery and rebuilding. (ILKHA)