Gaza’s civil defence authorities reported that at least 16 people have died after heavy seasonal rains battered the already war-hit territory, worsening humanitarian conditions. According to officials, days of continuous rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas, collapsed weak structures, and submerged makeshift shelters housing displaced families across several districts of Gaza.
Rescue teams said most victims were trapped when water rushed into poorly built homes and tents, particularly in northern and central Gaza. Civil defence workers described extremely difficult conditions, as damaged roads, fuel shortages, and limited equipment slowed rescue operations. Many families were caught unprepared as rainwater mixed with sewage overflowed into residential areas.
Officials warned that thousands of displaced people remain at serious risk as winter weather intensifies. With much of Gaza’s infrastructure damaged, drainage systems are either destroyed or overwhelmed. Large pools of stagnant water have formed near shelters, raising fears of disease outbreaks, especially among children, elderly people, and those already suffering from malnutrition.
Humanitarian agencies operating in Gaza have repeatedly warned that temporary shelters made of plastic sheets and thin fabric cannot withstand heavy rain or cold winds. Many displaced residents reported losing blankets, food supplies, and personal belongings as floodwaters swept through camps overnight, leaving families exposed to freezing temperatures.
The Gaza civil defence appealed for urgent international assistance, calling for waterproof tents, heating supplies, fuel for rescue vehicles, and equipment to pump out floodwater. Officials stressed that without immediate support, the death toll could rise as more rain is forecast and living conditions continue to deteriorate rapidly.
As Gaza faces ongoing conflict and severe shortages, the impact of natural disasters like heavy rain becomes far more deadly. Aid workers say the tragedy highlights how vulnerable civilians remain, with weather-related emergencies now posing an additional threat to lives already affected by prolonged violence and humanitarian collapse.
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