On Thursday, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) unveiled that floods in northeastern Libya have forced the displacement of over 43,000 individuals.
As the Libyan city of Derna, devastated by the floods, continues its search and accounting for victims, certain politicians have accused Libya’s ruling powers of exploiting the disaster to delay discussions on upcoming elections and leverage it for their benefit.
Amid this backdrop, the European Union (EU) is stepping up its assistance. Pivoting to technology, the EU has activated its “Copernicus” satellite system. The aim? Crafting precise geographical maps to bolster local and international rescue missions across the flood-stricken eastern Libyan territories.
As the situation develops, more displaced individuals are relocating to eastern areas, such as Tobruk, where approximately 1,320 people have sought refuge. Benghazi has also seen an influx of displaced individuals, with around 730 seeking shelter there. The majority of these individuals are being hosted by relatives and extended families.
According to the IOM, field observers on the ground have reported that displaced families from Derna are also seeking refuge in western municipalities including Tripoli, Hai Alandalus, Misrata, Ghiryan, and Qasr bin Ghasheer. Many of them are temporarily staying with host families who have opened their doors to provide shelter.
The most pressing needs identified by the displaced population include access to food, drinking water, mental health, and psychosocial support. Additionally, households with school-aged children are particularly concerned about their children’s ability to attend school and the availability of educational supplies in their new locations.
On 10 September, a devastating storm swept through several eastern regions of Libya, notably the cities of Derna, Benghazi, Al-Bayda, Al-Marj, and Sousse. This resulted in significant destruction and led to the loss of thousands of lives, injuries, and missing individuals.
