Gaza storms bring flooding, sewage and misery in tent camps |
By Nidal al-Mughrabi
GAZA/CAIRO (Reuters) -Crammed into flimsy tent camps hard up against the seashore, Gazans have been flooded by heavy rain and storm surges in recent days, destroying some shelters, soaking mattresses and blankets and bringing new misery even after a ceasefire.
The Hamas-run Gaza government has estimated losses from the stormy weather at around $4.5 million, including 22,000 tents, spoiled food and medicines and damage to infrastructure, while local aid groups say 300,000 new tents are urgently needed.
Nearly all Gazans were forced from their homes during more than two years of Israel's assault on the tiny, crowded enclave, triggered by the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023, with many now living in tents and other basic shelters.
SAVING BELONGINGS FROM THE WATER
For Abu Mohammed al-Qarra, the rain and cold have been devastating, with water coming into his family's tent on a beach just 20 meters (yards) from the waves,........