‘Nothing compares to this’: An inside account of the devastating floods in Libya

A devastating flood has hit the city of Derna, Libya and neighboring Mediterranean coast areas following a storm, leading to the collapse of two dams and the death of at least 5,000 people.

The disaster: The flood resulted in the collapse of two dams and entire neighborhoods were wrecked.
* At least 5,000 people have been confirmed dead, with many more reported missing.
* Dr. Huda Akram, a Benghazi-based doctor whose family is from Derna, described horrifying scenes, including her grandmother and aunt’s drowning.

Firsthand account: Dr. Akram recounts the events and the trauma experienced by survivors.
* Akram’s accounts suggest the flood hit rapidly, overwhelming residents and causing extensive deaths.
* She described instances of severe trauma, particularly for children who witnessed the deaths of their family members.
* As a psychiatrist, Akram notes that the flood’s impact exceeds any traumatic experiences from previous armed conflicts in the region.

Government response: Reports indicate that warnings before the flood and relief efforts after have been inadequate.
* Akram alleges that despite governments being allocated extensive budgets for infrastructure and maintenance—including for the dam—no evidence can be seen of these funds being used properly.
* No government officials have resigned or apologized in the aftermath, and there have been no reports of anyone being held accountable for the disaster.

The aftermath: Relief efforts are ongoing, but family networks seem to represent the primary form of support for survivors.
* Akram indicates that family connections and people hosting each other have been the primary source of support, often more so than governmental help.
* Reports suggest that assistance efforts are in motion, but unclear if aid is reaching those in need.
* There is strong connectivity between Derna and Benghazi, fostering reciprocal hosting between family members throughout the crisis.

View original article on NPR

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