Storms flood displacement camps along Gaza’s coast, deepening humanitarian crisis: Video
Severe winter storms have once again forced families from their makeshift camps along the coast of Khan Younis, as seawater surged through tents on Sunday, December 28.
Thousands of people displaced by the ongoing conflict in Gaza now face worsening living conditions amid heavy rain and strong winds.
Residents reported that water quickly overwhelmed their temporary shelters, washing away belongings and leaving families struggling to protect children and elderly relatives. Attempts to dig drainage channels in the sand were largely ineffective against the force of the storms.
Displaced parents described moving young children to safer locations while returning to flooded camps to recover what possessions they could. Many emphasised that tents provide little protection from harsh winter weather, calling for more durable solutions such as caravans.
Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commissioner-General, highlighted the impact on social media, noting that harsh winter conditions are compounding more than two years of suffering. He warned that people are surviving in flimsy, waterlogged tents and amid ruins, with their living conditions deteriorating further.
Local media reported that the storms have been deadly, with at least 17 people killed, including four children. Humanitarian agencies have cautioned that without improved shelter and protection, further casualties are likely as the winter season continues.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
