In eastern Libya, severe flooding caused by Storm Daniel has led to fears of hundreds of casualties, with the worst-hit city being Derna. Two dams burst due to heavy rainfall, causing a wall of water to devastate roads, buildings, and bridges. This storm brought the heaviest single-day rainfall in nearly 40 years. Both rival governments in Libya declared three days of national mourning. Efforts to provide aid and support are underway, with a convoy of supplies and volunteers leaving Western Libya and volunteers from the east trying to reach affected areas. The situation in Derna remains dire, with thousands of people missing and feared dead. International assistance is urgently needed, given the extent of the disaster and the limited capabilities of local authorities.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Eastern Libya has been affected by floods caused by Storm Daniel.
2. The city of Derna is thought to be the worst affected, with authorities reporting that two dams burst in the heavy rainfall.
3. A wall of water swept through the city, destroying roads, buildings, and bridges.
4. The storm brought the heaviest amount of rainfall in a single day in nearly 40 years.
5. Libya's rival governments have both announced three days of national mourning.
6. A large convoy of aid, including excavators, bulldozers, and medical staff, is on its way to Eastern Libya.
7. The convoy is expected to arrive in Eastern Libya, but the exact timing is uncertain.
8. The city of Derna is a port city located on the Mediterranean coast, surrounded by mountains.
9. A major dam in the mountains collapsed, sending a large amount of water into the city.
10. The disaster has been described as "catastrophic," with entire neighborhoods washed away.
11. The death toll is expected to rise, with many people still missing.
12. The Libyan government has declared Eastern Libya a disaster zone and sent teams of emergency workers from Western Libya.
13. The internationally recognized government in Tripoli has instructed the Ministry of Health to provide assistance and relief convoys.
14. The impact of the storm on Eastern Libya has been devastating, with many people affected.
15. Local officials are calling for immediate assistance, with fears that the death toll will only rise.
16. Forecasters have issued a red warning, saying more storms are on their way.
17. The city of Derna has a population of around 180,000 people.
18. The city has a rich history, dating back to the days of the Inquisition in 1492.
19. The city has been affected by political divisions in Libya over the past 12 years.
20. The disaster has been described as a "humanitarian challenge" that requires international assistance.
21. The Libyan government is appealing for international aid to help with the disaster.
22. The government is in need of sophisticated equipment, including digging equipment and medical supplies.
23. The International Community is being asked to provide assistance, including food, shelter, and logistical support.
24. The disaster has highlighted the need for unity and cooperation among Libyans to respond to the crisis.
25. The Libyan government is working to facilitate the delivery of aid to the affected areas.