Gaza appeals for aid as floods swamp refugee camps

A Palestinian civil defense official has issued an urgent appeal for international humanitarian aid to Gaza after heavy rains flooded camps for displaced people. Mahmoud Bassal requested intervention from the UN and guarantor countries to prevent a catastrophe. Water levels reached one meter in tent camps located in low-lying areas, forcing evacuees to sleep outdoors. More than 70,000 tents were flooded on November 7, with the worst damage in Gaza port, Jabalia, Beit Lahia, Deir al-Balah, and Nuseirat. A woman and three children died in Deir al-Balah when a wall collapsed. Palestinians need insulated tents, prefabricated homes, warm clothing, heaters, and construction equipment. Officials fear building collapses due to soil erosion and flooding. Preliminary estimates from the Maan agency put damage to temporary camp infrastructure at $3 million.