Gaza City is facing a compounded humanitarian crisis as severe weather exacerbates already dire conditions. Municipal authorities are struggling to respond to urgent calls for help due to widespread destruction and critical shortages.
The Mayor of Gaza, Yahya Al-Sarraj, stated that rescue and emergency teams across the Gaza Strip have been working tirelessly, but are severely hampered by a lack of essential resources. He emphasized the critical shortage of vehicles, fuel, and equipment necessary to save lives and provide basic services.
Al-Sarraj explained that strong winds associated with the weather system have swept debris into low-lying areas, blocking drainage systems. This has led to flooding and water intrusion into damaged homes and displacement tents, offering scant protection from the cold and rain.
The acute fuel shortage is a major impediment to municipal operations. According to Al-Sarraj, the allowed fuel deliveries are insufficient, preventing crews from operating machinery or responding adequately to emergencies. The lack of adequate resources has already proven fatal.
During the past night, the collapse of a damaged building in Gaza City resulted in the deaths of four people, mostly women and children. Al-Sarraj attributed this tragedy directly to the lack of resources and the prevention of temporary shelter materials from entering Gaza, which could have provided safer housing for displaced families.
Tragically, the Ministry of Health in Gaza reported the death of an infant due to the severe cold inside a tent in Deir al-Balah. Other fatalities were reported due to partial collapses of damaged buildings west of Gaza City, as the severe weather continues.
Al-Sarraj stressed that temperatures have plummeted, while residents lack adequate heating. Water has seeped into tents and remaining homes, making the nights extremely difficult, especially for children and the elderly. He questioned the justifications for preventing the entry of prefabricated homes and building materials into the Gaza Strip.
DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
