Appeal for Australian support as floods devastate Libya

Australia for UNHCR is calling for urgent Australian support for people in Libya devastated by flooding in recent days. 

At least 5,300 people have been killed and more than 10,000 remain missing after floods burst two dams, swept away buildings and wiped out entire neighbourhoods in the city of Derna.   

The floods were caused by a storm which swept through coastal areas in the country’s north-east over the weekend, with Derna worst hit. 

“The scenes we’re seeing out of Libya are heartbreaking. My thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones and their homes,” Australia for UNHCR Head of Communications, Lisa Upton said. 

“UNHCR is working with partners on the ground to get urgently needed aid to those in affected areas. I encourage Australians to support the people of Libya during their time of great need by donating to Australia for UNHCR,” Ms Upton said. 

At least 30,000 people are estimated to have been displaced in Derna by the storm and several thousand more in Albayda, Almkheley, and Benghazi.  

The UN Refugee Agency is working closely with national and international partners to deliver aid to affected areas, including shelter, blankets, kitchen sets, solar lamps and hygiene kits.  

The agency is also providing psychological support, medical supplies and equipment to health care clinics, and establishing community-based care arrangements, especially for children without family, as a matter of priority. 

Refugees and asylum seekers from Sudan and Syria, along with internally displaced people, are among those affected in the east of the country.   

“Some just fled the war in Sudan looking for safety in Libya and are now bearing the brunt of a devastating hurricane,” said UNHCR Spokesperson for Middle East and North Africa, Rula Amin.