Supervisor Elham AbolFateh
Editor in Chief Mohamed Wadie

Heavy Rain Causes Floods in Lebanon


Sat 13 Jan 2024 | 10:44 PM
Israa Farhan

The intense rainstorm currently affecting Lebanon has led to the flooding of numerous roads, residential neighborhoods, and Syrian refugee camps, especially in the northern part of the country.

This flooding is a result of the overflowing of rivers and drainage channels that can no longer accommodate the heavy rainfall occurring in short, successive intervals.

Lebanon, along with the eastern Mediterranean basin, has been experiencing a low-pressure weather system accompanied by torrential rains since the beginning of the week, with its peak occurring on Friday and Saturday.

This storm has caused significant damage, particularly in northern Lebanon, where Civil Defense teams are still conducting rescue operations due to rising water levels inundating roads, homes, and businesses in areas like Abdah and Kanisa in the Akkar Governorate, according to a statement from the Civil Defense.

The rainwater has also affected three Syrian refugee camps in the Akkar plain region, causing refugee tents to be submerged in nearly half a meter of water.

This rendered them unsuitable for habitation, damaged the residents' belongings, and forced them to seek shelter elsewhere.

Unfortunately, many have struggled to find alternative places to stay, as relief and support efforts remain limited.

The situation highlights the vulnerability of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, who often live in precarious conditions with inadequate infrastructure.

The flooding has exacerbated their already challenging circumstances, underscoring the need for increased humanitarian assistance and support to address their needs in times of natural disasters like this one.