Title: The devastating consequences of the floods in Derna: a tragic outcome
Introduction :
In the town of Derna, located in the east of the country, residents experienced a real natural disaster with the floods that hit the region twelve days ago. The latest official figures show more than 3,300 deaths, and the city is completely devastated. Having had the opportunity to go there accompanied by soldiers from the Libyan National Army, our special correspondent was able to see the extent of the damage and collect poignant testimonies from the surviving residents.
The deafening silence of a ghost town:
Arriving in the city center of Derna, an impression of silence predominates. The streets are deserted, evacuated by residents who fled the floods. Nearly a third of the city was completely destroyed. Prohibiting access to journalists and residents further reinforces the feeling of a ghost town. Only the sounds of excavators and search work for the missing are heard in the desolate landscape.
Scenes of destruction:
The town of Derna looks like a post-tsunami field of ruins. All bridges, including the two main ones entering the city center, were destroyed. Rescue teams are working to clear the rubble and open access roads. The images are striking and demonstrate the extent of the damage caused by the floods.
The closure of the city center for security reasons:
The Libyan National Army (LNA) decided to close the city center of Derna in order to secure the scene and help search teams. Authorities are working tirelessly to find missing people buried under tons of earth and sand. The roads are inaccessible and bypasses have been put in place to allow entry and exit from the city.
Heartbreaking testimonies from survivors:
Some families managed to find refuge in a school in the Chiha district, relatively untouched by the disaster. Each of them has a poignant story to tell about what they call “the flood.” Most of the survivors were welcomed by their relatives in neighboring towns, but very few are housed in reception centers. A center has been set up to allow families to identify the bodies of their deceased loved ones. This place is filled with photos of unidentified people, and the wait is unbearable for those who have lost loved ones.
A tragic outcome:
The official number of victims stands at more than 3,300 people, but this figure does not take into account the missing. The Libyan National Army is actively working to identify the bodies and give them a dignified burial. Derna residents hope the land and sea will return the bodies of loved ones they lost in this tragedy.
Conclusion :
The floods in Derna left behind a landscape of desolation and a tragic toll. Authorities and rescue teams are working to cope with this unprecedented disaster. The solidarity and support of Libyans are essential to help the city and its inhabitants rebuild. Let us hope that this tragedy serves as a lesson to strengthen prevention and warning measures in the face of climate risks.