UNICEF Ireland launches emergency appeal to support children in Eastern Libya amidst Hurricane Daniel devastation

Unicef Ireland has launched an urgent emergency appeal to provide assistance and support to children affected by the devastating flooding caused by Hurricane Daniel in eastern Libya.

The storm has led to the collapse of two dams, resulting in widespread flooding and significant damage to the region.

In the affected areas of Al Bayda, Al Marj, and Derna, where approximately 664,000 people, including 283,000 children, reside, the situation is dire.

Derna town alone is home to over 80,000 people, with its district housing around 200,000 people.

The storm has reportedly claimed the lives of over 5,000 people in Libya, with another 10,000 reported as missing.

People survey damage caused by floods in Derna, northeastern Libya, on Sept. 11, 2023. © UNICEF/UNI434931/AFP

Additionally, approximately 20,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) are seeking shelter in schools, and 7,000 individuals are stranded in remote areas.

Children are always among the most vulnerable in any emergency, and many have been displaced by the floods, urgently requiring assistance and psychosocial support.

Extensive damage has been reported in most cities, particularly in Derna, where three main hospitals and four primary healthcare centers are currently out of service.

Moreover, six schools have been damaged in Derna alone, affecting the education of numerous children.

While the exact number of children killed, injured, or left homeless is currently unknown, it is highly likely that hundreds if not thousands have been affected by these devastating circumstances.

The risk of children losing their parents or becoming separated from their families is also a significant concern.

In a statement, UNICEF said that, in collaboration with local partners, it is: “mobilizing urgently needed supplies, including hygiene kits, vital medical supplies, and essential clothing kits for children.

“The immediate needs of affected children and families include shelter, safe drinking water, medical supplies, and family tracing.

“Furthermore, child protection services, including psychosocial support, will be crucial in helping children and parents cope with the distressing experiences they have gone through. Funds will be urgently required for providing lifesaving supplies to meet the needs of the affected population. In the medium term, rehabilitation of clinics and hospitals, repairs of water and sanitation systems, cholera prevention, and the restoration of schools will be essential for the recovery and well-being of the affected communities.

“UNICEF remains committed to closely monitoring the situation and working closely with the Libyan authorities and the UN country team to determine the best course of action as the situation continues to unfold.”