Libya has been struggling with severe weather conditions in recent hours, as heavy rainfall caused significant flooding in several major cities.
The torrential downpours led to rising water levels that submerged key roads, crippling traffic and creating chaos in the streets. The country is bracing for another round of storms in the coming hours, with experts predicting further disruptions.
Footage and photos shared on social media have shown the extent of the damage in cities like Tripoli, Zawiya, and Benghazi, where streets were completely flooded. Vehicles were trapped in the rising waters, and many citizens were stranded on the roads. The floods also inundated shops and homes, leaving residents struggling to cope with the aftermath.
In response to the crisis, the Municipality of Tripoli issued a warning for residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary, urging people to avoid venturing out in the dangerous conditions. The Libyan Emergency and Ambulance Authority also raised alarms about the potential dangers posed by fast-moving floodwaters, particularly in the western regions, where riverbeds (wadi) have been overflowing. As a precaution, schools in the affected areas were closed to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The situation has reignited concerns over Libya’s lack of preparedness for extreme weather events. Once again, citizens have voiced their frustration on social media, blaming the government for failing to adequately address infrastructure issues, particularly stormwater drainage systems. Despite billions of dollars being spent on infrastructure in recent years, the country’s cities remain ill-equipped to handle heavy rainfall, leading to widespread damage and disruption.
The country’s road systems, drainage networks, and urban planning are still recovering from the damage caused during the civil war. And while the government has made some progress in infrastructure development, recurring floods demonstrate that there is still much to be done to make Libyan cities resilient to the challenges posed by extreme weather.
The floods in Libya serve as a stark reminder of the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters and the urgent need for long-term solutions to strengthen its infrastructure. As Libya continues to rebuild after years of instability, it is clear that investing in disaster-resistant infrastructure is essential for safeguarding the future of its cities and citizens.
