The death toll from the floods and torrential rains that swept through the Libyan city of Derna has risen to a staggering 5,300, according to the latest statistics released on Tuesday by the Interior Ministry of the government appointed by the House of Representatives.
The ministry’s spokesperson, confirmed to the Libyan News Agency that the number of casualties in Derna due to the devastating Mediterranean storm has exceeded 5,300, with thousands still missing.
He emphasized that search and rescue operations, as well as efforts to aid those affected, are ongoing by local rescue teams.
He called for international intervention to assist in rescue efforts and protect the victims of these unprecedented floods.
The staggering loss of life and destruction left in the wake of Storm “Daniel” underscores its severity, as well as the fragility of a state that has been torn apart by chaos for over a decade.
External aid began reaching Derna on Tuesday, more than 36 hours after the disaster struck.
The floods caused damage to or destruction of numerous roads leading to the coastal city, which has a population of around 89,000.
Footage has shown dozens of bodies covered and strewn across the grounds of a hospital in Derna, with another image revealing a mass grave piled with bodies.
