Thousands of displaced Palestinian families in the Gaza Strip are facing renewed hardship after heavy rains and strong winds battered the territory, flooding makeshift shelters and damaging already fragile tents.
The winter storm has further worsened the humanitarian crisis, leaving families struggling to protect themselves, their children and their remaining belongings from the harsh weather.
According to Gaza's Government Media Office, approximately 70,000 tents were flooded within 12 hours, leaving thousands of families exposed to rain, cold and strong winds. The flooding also damaged bedding and essential belongings, while emergency teams struggled to respond to the growing number of distress calls.
Storm Worsens Already Dire Living Conditions
The heavy rainfall has inundated several displacement camps across Gaza, with families forced to wade through muddy, waterlogged areas to salvage whatever belongings they can.
Many Palestinians are living in worn-out tents and makeshift shelters that offer little protection against extreme weather. Strong winds have further damaged temporary structures, while rainwater has soaked mattresses, blankets and clothing.
According to Gaza's Civil Defence, emergency teams received approximately 1,500 distress calls within 10 hours as the storm swept across the territory.
Fourth Winter Amid Displacement and Destruction
The latest storm comes as Palestinians prepare to endure their fourth winter since the war began in October 2023. Thousands of families remain displaced after losing their homes, with many having no access to adequate alternative accommodation.
The destruction of residential buildings, damaged infrastructure and shortages of essential shelter materials have made winter particularly dangerous for vulnerable communities, especially children, elderly people and those with medical conditions.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The situation is further complicated by damaged drainage systems, inadequate sanitation facilities and shortages of resources needed for emergency response. Floodwater in overcrowded camps also raises concerns about hygiene, sanitation and the spread of disease.
Humanitarian organisations have repeatedly highlighted the urgent need for tents, tarpaulins, blankets, heating supplies and emergency shelter assistance.
As another winter storm exposes the vulnerability of displaced families, the immediate challenge remains providing safe shelter and essential humanitarian assistance to Palestinians struggling to survive amid the ongoing devastation in Gaza.