Last updated: 14/09/23
Thousands feared dead in Derna as dam collapse causes catastrophic flood damage
In response to the catastrophic flooding in Libya the British Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal to support the people affected.
On Sunday 10 September, Storm Daniel hit north-eastern Libya, causing strong winds and sudden heavy rainfall. The result was devastating flash floods, where “tsunami-like” waves swept away everything in their path.
In the port city of Derna, two dams burst under the pressure and entire neighbourhoods were destroyed by the three-metre-high flood waters. Thousands of people were killed, and bridges, buildings and vital infrastructure were badly damaged.
The eastern cities of Benghazi, Sousa, and Al-Marj also experienced flash flooding and, like Derna, are in urgent need of vital aid and support.
People are in desperate need of our help. If you can, please make a donation today.
How is the Red Cross helping?
People have lost everything. Right now, the Libyan Red Crescent is helping deliver vital aid to survivors in the flooded areas and is supporting with rescue efforts.
This includes:
• First aid and medical assistance
• Search and rescue
• Evacuating families
• Provision of food, water, emergency shelter kits and other relief items
How can you help those affected by the floods?
The best way to help us reach people affected by the flooding in Libya is by donating to our appeal, which supports local teams on the ground.
The Libya Floods Appeal will cover areas affected by the floods and those potentially affected in the future. In the unlikely event that we raise more money than can be reasonably and efficiently spent, any surplus funds will be used to help us prepare for and respond to other humanitarian disasters anywhere in the world. For more information visit https://donate.redcross.org.uk/appeal/disaster-fund
