In northeastern Libya, more than five thousand people died as a result of flooding and the collapse of two dams. Another 10 000 are considered missing, reports CNN.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Eastern Administration of Libya, at least 5 300 people are believed to have died as a result of the flood.
Storm "Daniel" led to the collapse of two dams, through which water rushed towards Derna and caused catastrophic damage. Currently, hospitals in Derna are closed, and morgues are full.
Telephone lines are also down in the city, which complicates rescue operations.
"Three bridges have been destroyed. The flow of water washed away whole areas, carrying them into the sea," noted the spokesman of the Libyan National Army Ahmed Mismari.
Planes from Turkey and Italy have already arrived in Libya with humanitarian aid. The President of the United Arab Emirates ordered to send aid and search and rescue teams to the country.
- On Sunday, September 10, Storm Daniel swept over the Mediterranean Sea, flooding roads and destroying buildings in Derna, as well as hitting other towns along the coast, including Benghazi, the countryʼs second largest city.
- Libya is politically divided between East and West, and public services are in ruins since the 2011 uprising that sparked years of conflict. The internationally recognized government in Tripoli does not control the eastern areas.