Heavy rains flood Gaza's displaced tent encampments

The recent Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of at least 10 Palestinians, including children, while heavy rains flooded the tents of displaced individuals, forcing many to evacuate their shelters. In areas like Nuseirat, where a school sheltering displaced families was hit, the situation has become increasingly precarious. Residents have reported a sharp increase in the prices of essential materials for shelter, such as tents and plastic sheeting, making it difficult for many to replace lost or damaged items. Humanitarian agencies, including the UNRWA, have highlighted the urgent need for more durable shelters and supplies as the rainy season approaches, warning that current conditions are inadequate to protect the displaced population from the harsh weather and ongoing conflict.

Impact of Heavy Rains

• Flooding of Tent Encampments: The heavy downpours have led to significant flooding in tent encampments, washing away shelters and damaging personal belongings. Displaced families have resorted to using makeshift materials to construct their tents, which are often inadequate against the elements.

• Rising Costs of Shelter Materials: The price of essential materials like tents and plastic sheeting has skyrocketed, with reports indicating that prices have increased from 100-200 shekels ($27-$54) to 700-800 shekels ($189-$216) in just a few days. This surge in costs is attributed to market manipulation by local merchants, leaving many families unable to afford necessary supplies.

Humanitarian Response

The UNRWA has called for increased aid and resources to support the displaced population as winter approaches. They emphasize that the current solutions, primarily plastic and fabric, are insufficient to protect against the rain and cold, highlighting the urgent need for more robust shelters and supplies to assist those affected by both the conflict and the severe weather conditions.