News|Israel-Palestine conflictEight die in Gaza as storm brings extreme cold, collapses buildingsCivil Defence warns of catastrophic repercussions from the storm for Palestinians, who lack adequate shelter, as Israel continues to block aid, critical supplies in violation of truce.
Eight individuals have died in Gaza as a severe storm has compounded the challenges faced by displaced populations in the region. The storm has resulted in cold temperatures and strong winds, which have caused significant structural damage to already…
Eight individuals have died in Gaza as a severe storm has compounded the challenges faced by displaced populations in the region. The storm has resulted in cold temperatures and strong winds, which have caused significant structural damage to already compromised buildings.
Humanitarian aid and necessary supplies continue to be restricted from entering the Gaza Strip despite the ceasefire initiated on Tue, Oct 10, 2023. This blockade is affecting the essential support required for shelters and other critical needs.
A spokesperson from Gaza's Civil Defence reported that four deaths have occurred due to the severe cold brought by ongoing adverse weather conditions. The inclement weather has led to torrential rain and freezing winds, significantly impacting the coastal area.
One of the casualties included a one-year-old, who succumbed to hypothermia while in a tent, as confirmed by Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah.
UNICEF reported that six children have died from hypothermia in the current winter season. Additionally, four other individuals were killed when storm-weakened structures collapsed in Gaza City.
Eight individuals have died in Gaza as a severe storm has compounded the challenges faced by displaced populations in the region.
Civil Defence spokesperson Mahmoud Basal has highlighted the dire consequences of the storm, compounded by the ongoing restrictions on goods entering Gaza, which have left many without adequate shelter.
Hospitals across Gaza have experienced an increase in patients, particularly children, with cold-related illnesses. Shelters are reported to have sustained damage, rendering them unusable, and numerous tents have been destroyed by the strong winds.
The Palestinian NGO Network in Gaza estimates that approximately 10,000 families are at risk due to the storm. The ongoing restrictions on imports are limiting access to essential shelter and medical supplies, hindering relief efforts.
Gaza City Mayor Yahya al-Sarraj has called for international intervention to facilitate the entry of aid, allowing Palestinians to rebuild homes and access necessary medical supplies.
The current low-pressure system is anticipated to persist, maintaining cold conditions until at least the evening of Tue, Jan 16, 2026.
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging Israel to permit aid access to the region. Qatar continues diplomatic efforts to advance the Gaza agreement, emphasizing the need for immediate relief operations without preconditions.
UNICEF reports indicate that more than 100 children have died in Gaza since the ceasefire began, attributed to various military actions.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
