The Libyan Ministry of Health conducted an emergency meeting today with several officials and health leaders in attendance. This was in response to directives from Health Minister Dr. Osman Abdeljalil, concerning urgent action to support the city of Tarhuna and other areas affected by recent floods in the western region.
The meeting resulted in the implementation of several urgent measures:
Immediate communication with the General Director of Tarhuna Hospital to assess the health situation and emergency needs, coordinating with hospitals in the southern and eastern regions to provide necessary supplies promptly.
Preparation of a comprehensive medical convoy including a specialized medical team, medications, medical equipment, and essential supplies, set to depart tomorrow morning.
Establishment of a gathering point for medical teams and the convoy at the Ministry of Health headquarters before moving towards the affected areas.
The Ministry of Health affirmed that these actions are part of the Libyan government’s ongoing efforts to support areas impacted by natural disasters and to ensure the provision of urgent healthcare to the residents of Tarhuna and surrounding regions.
A tragic incident has shaken the city of Bani Walid, Libya, as one paramedic lost his life and another remains missing after being swept away by powerful flash floods in Wadi Washtatah. The floods occurred on Friday while the two emergency responders were en route to support rescue teams in Tarhuna.
The Emergency and Ambulance Service in Bani Walid confirmed the death of Hytham Gaith Al-Ahouri, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of one of their own.
In a heartfelt statement, the service extended condolences to Al-Ahouri’s family and colleagues, praying for his acceptance among martyrs. Meanwhile, the search continues for Malik Saad Al-Dabeeb, the second paramedic involved in the tragedy, as rescue teams battle challenging weather conditions to locate him.
The paramedics had been deployed to assist areas affected by severe weather when their vehicle was overwhelmed by the force of the flash floods. The incident underscores the risks faced by Libya’s emergency responders, who often operate under difficult conditions to help communities affected by natural disasters.
This tragic event comes amid Libya’s ongoing struggle with extreme weather, which has become increasingly severe in recent years. It follows the devastating impact of Storm Daniel in September 2023, which caused widespread destruction, particularly in the eastern city of Derna. Thousands of lives were lost in that disaster, with entire neighborhoods swept away by floods after two dams collapsed.
