Severe Downpours Exacerbate Situation for Uprooted Palestinians in Gaza, Agencies Warn

Heavy rains over the last seven days have intensified the extremely difficult living conditions of the hundreds of thousands of displaced residents in the region, as reported by relief groups.

"Awful" Weather Brings Severe Threats

A representative detailed the recent storm as "terrible", with downpours so intense that as much as 15cm (6in) of water was seen on the streets.

"Last night was exceptionally difficult for the people. The downpours were so strong... And the gusts were so powerful," noted the representative.

Officials express grave worry that young ones sheltering in makeshift shelters in wet clothing will contract hypothermia and additional sicknesses.

Deaths and Extensive Damage

The health ministry have stated that one baby has passed away from exposure and no fewer than 11 other people have been killed in roof cave-ins triggered by the severe weather.

Other reports put a greater death toll. Officials reported that several homes had totally fallen and dozens had sustained partial collapse.

• Roughly 55,000 families affected by flooding.
• More than 40 designated refuges submerged.
• Numerous individuals required to relocate again.

Relief Efforts Deemed Not Enough

Agencies have escalated distribution of shelter, warm covers and clothing following the halt in hostilities started, but they have said there is remains not enough aid getting in.

"Agencies are working relentlessly to provide that relief and to allocate it, but the scale of the necessities is so immense that we are faced with thousands of people and children who are genuinely enduring hardship each evening," stated one representative.

Ongoing Challenges and Truce Terms

The next stage of the ceasefire encompasses arrangements for the reconstruction of Gaza, along with political arrangements, the withdrawal of personnel, and other conditions.

Humanitarian bodies have underscored the need for "greater and continuous relief to respond to urgent and ongoing requirements."

The war was sparked by an assault in late 2023. Following actions have caused a significant number of lives lost in the region, according to health ministry figures.