Heavy rainfall caused havoc in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of tents and homes, and claiming the lives of at least six individuals, according to local health authorities. Tragic incidents included the collapse of dwellings near Gaza City’s coast, leading to the demise of five people, including two women and a young girl. Additionally, a one-year-old child perished due to hypothermia in a tent in Deir al-Balah.
The storm wreaked havoc by uprooting tents and sending them flying through the air before crashing down. Families were left scrambling to salvage their belongings amidst the chaos. Among the casualties were three members of the same family – Mohamed Hamouda, his 15-year-old granddaughter, and his daughter-in-law. They were tragically killed when a wall collapsed onto their tent in a coastal region near Gaza City, with five others sustaining injuries in the incident.
In the aftermath of the disaster, grieving relatives gathered to clear the debris and reconstruct shelters for the survivors. Bassel Hamouda, a family member, recounted the terrifying experience of the wall collapse during the funeral proceedings. Efforts were made by residents to reinforce the remaining shelters using sandbags and securing loose stakes to prevent further flooding.
Elsewhere, at a hospital morgue, numerous family members congregated for special prayers over the deceased before their funerals. The dire situation in Gaza, exacerbated by the recent storm, has underscored the urgent need for adequate shelter. The ongoing struggle for survival persists, with thousands left vulnerable to the harsh winter conditions due to the scarcity of suitable housing options.
The inclement weather has further compounded the challenges faced by Gazans, already reeling from the aftermath of prolonged conflict. The widespread devastation has prompted calls for increased humanitarian aid and support to address the pressing shelter needs of the displaced population. Efforts to provide essential resources and assistance remain crucial in alleviating the suffering endured by the people of Gaza amid these trying circumstances.