Storm Daniel has wrought extensive destruction in Libya’s northeast, resulting in a significant loss of life, with at least 2,000 confirmed fatalities and an alarming estimated figure of 10,000 individuals still unaccounted for. The severity of the situation can be attributed to the overwhelming rainfall, which led to the collapse of two dams, further exacerbating the already dire flooding situation in the region.

The epicenter of the devastation is the eastern city of Derna, where reports indicate that up to 6,000 people remain missing, painting a grim picture of the extent of the catastrophe. In Derna, the impact has been catastrophic, with entire neighborhoods reportedly washed away by the relentless rains, compounding the scale of the disaster.

Compounding the crisis, medical facilities in Derna are no longer operational, and morgues have reached their capacity, leaving deceased individuals exposed outside on sidewalks. The lack of immediate emergency services adds to the gravity of the situation, as efforts are underway to address the mounting challenges associated with the recovery and handling of decomposing bodies.

The origin of this catastrophic weather event can be traced back to a powerful low-pressure system that initially caused devastating flooding in Greece before traversing into the Mediterranean and subsequently evolving into a tropical-like cyclone known as a medicane.

This calamity serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate-related challenges, especially considering the backdrop of an extraordinary year marked by an increased frequency of climate disasters. It underscores the imperative for comprehensive and coordinated global efforts to mitigate and adapt to the growing impacts of climate change.