One year has passed since a catastrophic flood devastated the eastern Libyan city of Derna, leaving its residents grappling with immense loss and the challenges of rebuilding. The disaster, which occurred on September 10, 2023, was triggered by the collapse of two dams following torrential rains from Mediterranean storm Daniel.
The flood's impact on Derna was unprecedented in Libya's history. A wall of water, estimated to be two stories high, swept through the city, destroying entire neighborhoods and claiming thousands of lives. The scale of the tragedy is reflected in the numbers: aid organizations estimate between 4,000 and 11,000 deaths, with an additional 9,000 to 10,000 people missing and 30,000 displaced.
Mohsen al-Sheikh, a 52-year-old actor and theater administrator, exemplifies the personal toll of the disaster. He lost 103 members of his extended family, with only four bodies recovered. His story is not unique, as many families in Derna were nearly wiped out, leaving only a few survivors.
The flood's devastation was exacerbated by the city's topography and infrastructure. Derna, founded in the 15th century by Andalusian Moors, is situated near the Jebel Akhdar mountain range, with many homes built on the slopes of a dry riverbed valley. This location, while historically significant, proved catastrophic during the flood.
A report by the World Weather Attribution group found that climate change played a significant role in the disaster. The analysis concluded that the torrential rains were 50 times more likely to occur and 50% more intense due to human-caused climate change.
In the aftermath, legal action has been taken against those deemed responsible for the dams' failure. In late July 2024, a Libyan criminal court sentenced 12 local officials to prison terms ranging from 9 to 29 years for negligence in maintaining the dam facilities.
Rebuilding efforts are underway, but they face significant challenges due to Libya's ongoing political instability. The country has been in turmoil since the 2011 Arab Spring uprising that ousted longtime dictator Moammar Gaddafi. Derna, once a cultural center known for its diverse population of Turkish, Andalusian, and Cretan origin, has been deeply affected by the civil war and subsequent unrest.
Despite these challenges, there are signs of progress. The east-based Libyan parliament has allocated approximately $2 billion for a development fund to rebuild Derna and surrounding areas. New homes are being constructed, and survivors like al-Sheikh have received financial compensation.
"There remains a critical need for coordinated, effective and efficient reconstruction and long-term development."
International observers emphasize the need for continued support. The United Nations has called for coordinated and transparent national efforts for reconstruction, as well as assistance in identifying human remains and ensuring dignified reburials.
As Derna marks this somber anniversary, its residents continue to navigate the complex process of rebuilding their lives and their city. The disaster has not only reshaped the physical landscape but also highlighted the urgent need for climate change adaptation and improved infrastructure in vulnerable regions.