- Heavy rains from the first winter storm hit Gaza on Friday, leading to widespread flooding across the region.
- By the weekend, at least 70,000 tents were flooded as water rushed into displacement camps.
- On Sunday, a sand embankment collapsed onto tents in Deir el-Balah, resulting in the deaths of a woman and three children, with two others reported missing.
- Palestinian authorities condemned global 'indifference and inaction' following the mudslide that killed five people.
- Save the Children and other officials emphasized the lack of durable shelter and the obstruction of aid to those affected.
- The collapse of the embankment occurred after heavy rain caused a rocky sandbank to wash away, highlighting the perilous conditions faced by displaced Palestinians.
- Humanitarian conditions in Gaza are dire, with many families living in flimsy tents and exposed to harsh weather, as reconstruction efforts remain stalled.
- More than half a million children are currently living in critical or catastrophic shelter conditions, according to Save the Children.
- Local authorities reported that the flooding has exacerbated the already challenging living conditions for displaced families, many of whom have faced multiple winters in similar situations.
Heavy rains in Gaza have led to a tragic sand embankment collapse, resulting in the deaths of five displaced individuals, including three children. The incident occurred in Deir el-Balah, where torrential rains from the first winter storm of the year caused widespread flooding and damage.13
Local authorities reported that over 70,000 tents were flooded, leaving many families in dire conditions. The Gaza Government Media Office condemned global inaction, stating, “This is a scene that should shame the conscience of humanity.” The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by restrictions on aid and reconstruction efforts, with many families still living in flimsy tents.9
Witnesses described the harrowing scene as the embankment collapsed, with one survivor stating, “We found that three tents were covered completely after the mountain collapsed on top of them.” The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that more than 26,000 households have appealed for assistance due to damage from the storms.
Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire last year that promised reconstruction, little progress has been made. “We are asking for a dignified life,” said a displaced resident, highlighting the urgent need for better shelter as winter approaches. The ongoing conflict and restrictions have left many families vulnerable to harsh weather conditions, with 85 percent of homes destroyed or damaged.
As the rainy season sets in, the plight of Gaza's displaced population remains critical, with many families facing yet another winter of hardship and uncertainty.
“The collapse in Deir el-Balah killed a woman and three children, with two others missing, and medics said six others were injured. More than 70,000 tents have been flooded since the storm began, and Save the Children says over half a million children are in 'critical or catastrophic' shelter conditions.”
