The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) announced on Tuesday that over 10,000 people remain missing due to the floods and deluge witnessed in Libya over the past two days. The organisation anticipates a significant increase in the death toll.
AFP quoted Tariq Ramadan, an official from the organisation, saying, “The death count is massive, and could reach thousands. Independent sources confirm that the number of missing individuals stands at 10,000 so far.”
On Sunday evening, regions in eastern Libya experienced intense floods, leading to numerous deaths and disappearances. Homes were submerged, and significant infrastructure damage was observed due to the Mediterranean storm, Daniel.
Mohamed Al-Mnifi, the Head of the Presidential Council, declared parts of eastern Libya as disaster zones. He called on neighbouring countries, allies, and international organisations to offer support. He emphasised the importance of maritime rescue efforts to recover victims, assist the survivors, and ensure necessary supplies.
The Libyan Red Crescent announced that the total casualties reported to its crisis room amounted to 2,800 deaths. These figures cover all the affected cities that were hit by the floods, and include those who drowned or died because of building collapses.
The number of families stranded in disaster-stricken areas and currently undergoing rescue operations stands at 7,000. Moreover, there’s a significant number of missing individuals, yet to be identified since many haven’t been reported missing, especially in Derna where telecommunications have been cut off.
Notably, an Egyptian military delegation, led by General Osama Askar, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces arrived in Libya today to extend support, and assistance.
This visit comes as part of Egypt’s commitment to stand in solidarity with its Libya, offering logistical and urgent humanitarian aid to address the aftermath of the devastating hurricane.
The delegation aims to coordinate efforts with relevant Libyan agencies and institutions, to provide much-needed support. In accordance with the identified requirements, a military airlift bridge will be established to transport essential supplies.