On Saturday, the Libyan Prime Minister of the Parliament-designate government, Osama Hammad, took decisive action in anticipation of severe weather conditions forecasted to impact several regions in eastern Libya.
Acting on reports from the National Meteorological Center, Hammad has ordered the Ministries of Interior and Health, along with military and service agencies, to implement emergency measures to protect lives and minimize damage.
Regions expected to face adverse weather include Ajdabiya, the Benghazi Plains, Al-Marj, the Green Mountain area, and the city of Derna.
Hammad emphasized the importance of full coordination between all relevant agencies to ensure a swift and effective response. Emergency teams are being deployed, and resources are pre-positioned in high-risk areas to address potential flooding, landslides, and other dangers.
The government has issued clear public safety warnings, urging citizens to exercise extreme caution. Residents have been advised to avoid valleys, areas prone to water accumulation, and non-essential travel on public roads, as these areas are particularly vulnerable during heavy rains and storms.
Eastern Libya has a history of severe weather events that have caused widespread damage and loss of life. The Green Mountain area and Derna are especially prone to flash floods due to their geographical features. Past incidents, such as the devastating floods of 2023, revealed gaps in disaster preparedness and underscored the urgent need for robust, coordinated efforts to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
This proactive approach reflects the government’s commitment to minimizing the risks posed by severe weather and ensuring that emergency response teams are fully prepared.