Severe Precipitation Exacerbate Circumstances for Uprooted Gazans, UN Warn

Persistent storms over the last seven days have intensified the precarious living conditions of the hundreds of thousands of evacuated Palestinians in the territory, as stated by relief groups.

"Terrible" Weather Poses Grave Risks

A representative characterized the weather overnight as "awful", with rain so severe that up to 15cm (6in) of water was seen on the ground.

"Last night was truly difficult for the residents. The downpours were so intense... And the gusts were so forceful," noted the spokesperson.

Authorities voice significant anxiety that children living in makeshift shelters in wet clothing will contract hypothermia and additional illnesses.

Casualties and Significant Loss

Health authorities have reported that one baby has passed away from hypothermia and a minimum of 11 other people have died in building collapses triggered by the storms.

Other reports put a greater fatality count. Officials said that multiple residential buildings had fully given way and scores had collapsed partially.

• Almost 55,000 families impacted by the weather.
• More than 40 designated shelters submerged.
• Countless residents forced to relocate again.

Assistance Efforts Seen as Insufficient

Agencies have escalated deliveries of tarpaulins, warm covers and garments after the halt in hostilities commenced, but they have said there is remains not enough aid entering.

"Officials are operating tirelessly to bring in that assistance and to distribute it, but the scale of the needs is so enormous that we continue to see a great number of families and minors who are genuinely enduring hardship every night," stated one spokesperson.

Future Concerns and Agreement Terms

The next stage of the ceasefire includes plans for the reconstruction of Gaza, along with future administration, the withdrawal of military forces, and other terms.

Aid organizations have stressed the need for "expanded and ongoing humanitarian assistance to meet pressing and future requirements."

The hostilities was sparked by an attack in late 2023. Later actions have resulted in a high number of casualties in the region, as per health ministry reports.