We write to you today, urgently seeking your attention and assistance in light of a catastrophic disaster that has befallen our beloved country Libya.
Background:
On the 11th of September, Hurricane Daniel unleashed its devastating fury upon the eastern part of Libya, severely affecting cities such as Derna, Mechili, and Sousse and their people. The aftermath of this natural disaster has left our region in a state of utter chaos, despair, and desperation.
Current Situation:
The ongoing rescue efforts are led by local authorities from both government in the country the one of the east authorized by theThe Libyan House of Representatives (HoR) and the one in the west which recognized by international community and the Libyan military,and the rescue experts from the neighboring country, and dedicated volunteers from all across the cities and regions of libya. However, these commendable efforts are severely hampered by the complete destruction of all major roads in the affected area. As a result, a significant number of people in numerous villages find themselves entirely cut off, devoid of access to essential supplies, urgent medical assistance, and means of communication. This dire situation not only intensifies issues of food and water insecurity but also exacerbates challenges related to healthcare access, psychological well-being, and isolation. The mounting pressure on the few remaining passable roads further compounds the threat of isolating additional communities in desperate need of assistance.
The city of Derna, in particular, has been devastated by this calamity. Two dams in Derna collapsed in the wake of the hurricane, resulting in the destruction of 30% of the city. Countless homes and families were swept away into the unforgiving sea, and numerous roads and bridges within the city have been reduced to rubble. The ongoing flooding is exacerbating the crisis, making it increasingly difficult for residents to access basic necessities and for relief efforts to reach those in dire need.
Casualties:
The scale of this disaster is truly staggering. As of now, we are mourning the loss of 11,000 lives, with an additional 11,257 people still unaccounted for according to the Red Crescent. Families have been torn apart, and entire communities have been decimated.and the corpses are piling up in the streets.
Recent statistics released on September 16th by the Libyan Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Justice reveal the number of buried victims in Derna, now standing at 3,166, with hundreds more being buried daily.
It’s crucial to note that these numbers remain inaccurate due to the sheer volume of casualties and the initial challenges in establishing a centralized command center to effectively lead the rescue efforts in the critical first four days following the disaster.
The consequences have been devastating. Families in these afflicted cities have been torn apart, and entire communities have faced unprecedented decimation. The heart-wrenching result is that the streets are now filled with the somber presence of countless lifeless bodies.
Current Developments:
- Criminal Investigations and Victim Identification: The Libyan Attorney General, “Al-Sadiq Al-Sour,” has arrived in Derna to initiate criminal investigations into the dam collapses. Concurrently, efforts are underway to record DNA samples from victims to facilitate their identification. Portable refrigeration units have been provided to preserve the numerous bodies.
- Transition of Search and Rescue Operations: The Libyan army has officially concluded its search and rescue operations, relocating to the city outskirts and entrances to provide security. Search and rescue responsibilities have been transferred to relevant authorities, including the Red Crescent, the Red Cross, and local and international rescue teams operating in the city.
- Transportation and Communication Challenges: Ongoing rescue efforts, led by the various organizations, are severely hampered by the destruction of all major roads in the area. People in numerous villages remain completely stranded, with no access to essential supplies, medical assistance, or communication. This crisis has led to not only food and water insecurity but also exacerbated issues of medical access and psychological well-being.
- Food and Water Insecurity: The destruction of transportation routes has created a dire situation, with food and clean water in extremely short supply. Additionally, the pressure on the remaining passable roads is overwhelming, threatening to isolate even more communities in need.
- Healthcare Access and Psychological Well-being:
In the harrowing aftermath of the catastrophic floods, an indescribable tragedy unfolded. Entire families were swept away, leaving behind scenes of unimaginable sorrow. Many children, in particular, were forced to bear witness to the horrifying loss of their loved ones as they tragically drowned before their very eyes.This profound event has had a deep and lasting impact on the survivors. In addition to grappling with the physical destruction of their community, they now bear the heavy emotional scars of witnessing such an immense tragedy. The destruction of vital roads, which has hindered access to essential medical assistance, has further compounded the already urgent need for psychological support and counseling.
These survivors are enduring a profound sense of isolation, compounded by the grief of searching for their families among the heartbreaking scenes of loss on the city’s inundated streets. The mental and emotional toll on individuals, especially the children who have witnessed these traumatic events, is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention and support.
- Challenges in Coordination: Establishing and coordinating a central command center has proven challenging due to the absence of prior experience in dealing with such disasters in Libya. This initial hurdle has had an adverse impact on rescue and relief efforts.
- Environmental Concerns: In Derna, the pervasive odour of decomposing bodies has raised alarm over potential disease outbreaks and water pollution within the city. Tragically, cases of gastrointestinal diseases have already surfaced among 50 children, primarily attributed to the consumption of contaminated water sources.
- Water Quality Analysis: Urgent efforts are underway by the healthcare authority to collect water samples within the city for comprehensive analysis, aiming to determine the extent of contamination and implement immediate water purification measures.
Urgent need aspects in the ground:
- humanitarian aid: People in the affected area need food, clean water, medical supplies, and shelter for the displaced.
- Infrastructure support: People in the stranded villages and areas need assistance in rebuilding the vital roads, bridges, and dams that have been destroyed as a matter of urgency to ensure the delivery of essential supplies.
- Psychological and emotional support: Many survivors are traumatized and require counseling and mental health services.
- Long-term recovery and development assistance:The areas ravaged by the floods demand a steadfast commitment to long-term support, aiming not only to rebuild and recover but also to safeguard against the abandonment of these communities. Our paramount goal is to ensure the return of displaced individuals and families to their homes, reinvigorating the city’s spirit and vitality.
Mapping of these aspect are listed below the mapping is done based on report from the ground and needs assessment done in the first three days from the disaster by multiple volunteer and using the calls for help from these affected community and the local authority
Call to Action:
Official Appeal to the Global Community:
In the wake of the profound humanitarian crisis triggered by Hurricane Daniel, we extend a formal and solemn appeal to the international community. Our appeal encompasses entities such as the United Nations, influential regional organizations, sovereign Member States, private sector, and the civil society, among others.
The Urgency of Our Appeal:
At this critical juncture, we urgently request your invaluable support in heeding our call for assistance. Our plea is twofold: firstly, to raise awareness and secondly, to mobilize resources. We implore you to assist us in disseminating our urgent message across your extensive international network, which encompasses organizations, governments, and individuals endowed with the capability to provide the indispensable assistance and resources essential for mitigating further loss of life and ameliorating the profound suffering endured by those adversely affected by Hurricane Daniel.
Mapping of the essential needs:
Immediate Needs:
Food:
- Non-perishable food items.
- Water purification kits.
- Baby food and formula for infants.
Medical Supplies:
- First aid kits.
- Medications for common ailments.
- Medical equipment such as crutches, wheelchairs, and walking aids.
Shelter and Warmth:
- Tents and for temporary shelter.
- Blankets and warm clothing for cold nights.
Hygiene Kits:
- Personal hygiene items (soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes).
- Sanitary pads and tampons.
- Diapers for infants.
Emotional Support:
- Counselling services for trauma and grief.
- Support groups for survivors.
- Educational materials on coping with disaster-related stress.
Rescue and Recovery:
- Search and rescue teams with specialized equipment.
- Communication equipment for coordination.
Longer-Term Needs:
Infrastructure Rehabilitation:
- Construction materials for rebuilding homes, roads, and bridges.
- Heavy machinery and tools for reconstruction.
.
Education and Childcare:
- Temporary learning spaces and educational materials for children.
- Childcare services to support parents in recovery.
Livelihood Support:
- Vocational training and job placement services.
- Microloans and financial support for small businesses.
Psychological and Mental Health Support:
- Ongoing counseling services.
- Training for local mental health professionals.
- Public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma.
Security and Protection:
- Security personnel to prevent looting and maintain order.
- Legal support for addressing property and land disputes.
- Protection services for vulnerable populations, including women and children.
Community Building:
- Support for local community organizations and leaders.
- Social cohesion programs to rebuild trust and unity.
Environmental Restoration:
- Reforestation efforts to prevent soil erosion.
- Cleanup of hazardous materials and debris.
Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation:
- Training and resources for local communities to better prepare for future disasters.
- Infrastructure improvements to withstand future hurricanes.
Point of Contact:
Ahmed Abdulghani
Libya Representative, MENA Coalition on Youth , Peace and Security
Advocacy Advisor:
Marina Kumskova
