North African Libya Floods Occur... "At Least 2,000 Dead"

The storm 'Daniel,' which caused significant damage around the Mediterranean, struck the northeastern region of Libya in North Africa, resulting in a massive flood that reportedly killed more than 2,000 residents. In particular, concerns are rising that the death toll will increase exponentially as most areas in Libya remain in a state of anarchy due to the prolonged civil war, hindering smooth relief efforts.

On the 11th (local time), the downtown area of Marji in northeastern Libya submerged due to flooding. Marji=AP·Yonhap News

According to CNN on the 11th (local time), Ahmed Misrari, spokesperson for the Libyan National Army (LNA), a rebel group controlling eastern Libya, stated at a press conference that "so far, 2,000 people have died and 5,000 to 6,000 are missing due to the floods." Earlier, Storm Daniel struck Libya, causing massive floods in Benghazi, Sousse, Derna, Marj, and other areas. In particular, the collapse of two dams in Derna submerged surrounding urban and village areas, causing extensive damage.

Especially since eastern Libya is a rebel-controlled area and most regions are in a state of anarchy, official relief efforts by the Libyan government are difficult, and challenges are expected even for international aid organizations, raising concerns that the damage will worsen. Kais Fakiri, head of the Red Crescent relief organization operating in eastern Libya, also stated, "At least 150 people have been confirmed dead so far. The death toll could rise to 250."

Meanwhile, since the fall of the Muammar Gaddafi regime following the 'Arab Spring' revolution in 2011, Libya has remained in a state of anarchy with the LNA and the western unified government in conflict.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.