Gaza floods: Tens of thousands of families left without shelter

Statement from Beckie Ryan, Interim Country Director, CARE Palestine:

"Heavy rains over the weekend have compounded the suffering of a population in Gaza already forced to endure extreme hunger, repeated displacement, and the destruction of essential infrastructure after more than three years of conflict.

"261 displacement sites across Gaza reported rain and flooding at the weekend, and an estimated 70,000 tents were destroyed or damaged. People are exhausted and have spent days trying to secure tarpaulins and scoop water from the floor of tents. For these families, most of whom have been displaced repeatedly, a flooded tent means losing their last protection against the elements as winter approaches. It also means the loss of essential belongings including, clothing, bedding, medication, documentation and personal items.

"This storm has occurred during a massive displacement crisis: 65 per cent of Palestinians in Gaza, or 1.4 million people, were living in tents or makeshift shelters before the flooding. Despite the needs, there have been huge gaps in shelter supplies - Israeli authorities have blocked the entry into Gaza of essential items, including tents and other shelter materials. 150,000 tents are currently waiting ready to be dispatched into Gaza, according to the UN. 121,000 additional tents were needed even before the storm.

"Floodwater, inadequate sanitation and exposure to cold will also raise the risk of respiratory and waterborne illness, with women, children, older people and persons with disabilities facing the most acute risks.

"Our teams in Gaza have been mobilising with local partners to respond. They have been providing emergency tents, kitchen kits, winter clothing, emergency cash assistance and hygiene supplies. We also aim to clear blocked drains, and empty overflowing latrine pits and septic tanks, to reduce flooding and sewage around families' shelters. This was only the first storm of the season. Families across Gaza are bracing for more in the coming weeks and months. A recent flood risk assessment estimates that 761,000 people (138,000 families) in displacement sites across Gaza are likely to be affected by flooding this winter.

"All parties to the conflict must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law. Civilians, humanitarians and healthcare personnel must be protected. Israeli authorities must facilitate full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access. This includes opening all crossings for humanitarian aid and facilitating the entry of shelter and construction materials and machinery."

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