Heavy rainfall over the past week has dramatically worsened conditions for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, according to United Nations agencies.
UNICEF spokesman Jonathan Crickx described the overnight weather as “horrendous,” with up to 15 centimeters (6 inches) of water pooling on the ground.
He expressed extreme concern for children living in tents and makeshift shelters, warning that prolonged exposure in wet clothing could lead to widespread hypothermia and illness.
The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reported that at least one baby has died from hypothermia, and severe weather-related building collapses have killed at least 11 others.
UN agencies have increased deliveries of tents, blankets, and clothing since the ceasefire began nine weeks ago but warn that aid remains insufficient.
The UN and its partners estimate nearly 55,000 families have seen their belongings and shelters damaged or destroyed by the floods. More than 40 designated emergency shelters were severely inundated earlier this week, forcing many displaced people to relocate yet again.
