Libya’s Tarhuna Municipality has declared a state of emergency following heavy rainfall that caused severe water accumulation in several areas, including the Shuqalab neighbourhood, Souq Al-Khodra, and Tarhuna Teaching Hospital. The flooding resulted from blocked drainage systems, exacerbating the situation in the city.
In an official statement, the municipality confirmed that its emergency committee swiftly mobilised to address the crisis. Teams from the sanitation department, emergency medical services, the water company, the Red Crescent, and security agencies collaborated with the National Safety Authority to enhance rescue efforts and provide immediate assistance.
According to the statement, emergency teams successfully cleared blocked drainage systems and pumped out stagnant water, including flooding inside Tarhuna Teaching Hospital. Authorities worked throughout the night to mitigate the impact and prevent further damage to infrastructure.
The municipality has called on the government to intervene urgently and provide the necessary resources to support the city. Officials urged authorities to accelerate the provision of essential supplies to prevent further deterioration of the situation and protect lives and property.
Local residents have expressed concerns over the city’s drainage infrastructure, highlighting the need for long-term solutions to prevent recurring flooding. Experts warn that continued neglect of the drainage system could lead to similar incidents in the future, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
The declaration of emergency underscores the city’s vulnerability to extreme weather conditions and the urgent need for infrastructure improvements. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide assistance to affected residents while awaiting additional government support.
