On September 10, Storm Daniel hit the north-eastern part of Libya, impacting 1.2 million people in the coastal areas and cities. This led to massive flooding, resulting in loss of life and severe impacts to infrastructure.
Overwhelmed by floodwaters, dams in Derna collapsed, leading to the surge that swept away nearly a quarter of the urban area. Derna’s hospital was badly damaged, and services continue to be impacted, complicating relief and recovery efforts.
Red Cross Red Crescent response
The Libyan Red Crescent Society was the first on the ground to provide life-saving support, including first aid and search and rescue efforts. They continue to coordinate with local authorities to best meet urgent and longer-term needs of the impacted communities. Currently, the most urgent needs are for cash assistance, clean water, shelter, and psychosocial support.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and partner National Societies continue to support the Libyan Red Crescent Society in providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by the floods, including mobilizing relief items, first aid equipment and personnel.
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) teams are working in coordination with the Libyan Red Crescent Society to meet the urgent needs of people in the areas impacted by the floods. The ICRC installed two emergency water kits and trained the Libyan Red Crescent Society on how to use the emergency water and sanitation equipment. ICRC also distributed hygiene and essential household kits, as well as provided medical equipment and medicine.
The Red Cross Red Crescent Movement continues to assist people and communities impacted by the floods. The Movement is an independent entity that provides neutral and impartial humanitarian assistance and fulfills its mandate by working in close coordination with other organizations and government partners in the field to ensure the people affected by emergencies or disasters receive the best support possible.
Canadian Red Cross response to-date, in support of Red Cross Red Crescent relief efforts
Thanks to donations to the Libya Floods Appeal and support from the Temerty Foundation, the Canadian Red Cross sent a team of humanitarian experts and supplies to help the Libyan Red Crescent Society provide mental health and psychosocial support to people affected by the floods. This included setting up a community centre in Derna, a safe place where people can request support.
The Canadian Red Cross is grateful to the Government of Canada for funding that allows us to maintain our field hospital supplies and train our delegates.
The Canadian Red Cross also supported by sending relief supplies from the Government of Canada stockpiles to the Libyan Red Crescent Society. This includes blankets, hygiene kits, and kitchen sets that have been distributed by the Libyan Red Crescent Society.
The Canadian Red Cross remains in close contact with our Red Cross Red Crescent Movement partners and stands ready to respond with additional support as needed.