Heavy rains over the past week have compounded the already dire living conditions of the hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, UN agencies say. UNICEF spokesman Jonathan Crickx described the overnight weather as horrendous, noting significant water accumulation near his office. There are growing concerns over hypothermia and other illnesses among children living in inadequate shelter. Gaza's health ministry reports fatalities linked to severe weather, including one baby who succumbed to hypothermia.
UN agencies have attempted to deliver aid, including tents and blankets, but assert that efforts remain insufficient for the growing number of affected families. Estimates indicate that nearly 55,000 families have faced asset loss or damage due to flooding. The chaos has forced many to relocate after emergency shelters were overwhelmed.
Crickx expressed worry about the harsh winter conditions affecting the estimated one million people living in tents. Despite NGO efforts to provide winter clothing and supplies, the need is immense, with thousands left without adequate protection against the biting cold and wet weather. The international community is urged to provide increased humanitarian assistance as damaged infrastructure exacerbates the crisis. With the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, discussions about rebuilding Gaza's future are also taking shape.
UN agencies have attempted to deliver aid, including tents and blankets, but assert that efforts remain insufficient for the growing number of affected families. Estimates indicate that nearly 55,000 families have faced asset loss or damage due to flooding. The chaos has forced many to relocate after emergency shelters were overwhelmed.
Crickx expressed worry about the harsh winter conditions affecting the estimated one million people living in tents. Despite NGO efforts to provide winter clothing and supplies, the need is immense, with thousands left without adequate protection against the biting cold and wet weather. The international community is urged to provide increased humanitarian assistance as damaged infrastructure exacerbates the crisis. With the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, discussions about rebuilding Gaza's future are also taking shape.
