A claim that a state of emergency was declared in Libya's eastern region due to an impending storm named 'Daniel 2' was widely shared on social media platforms, including Facebook and X, on September 8, 2024. The claim suggested that the storm could develop into a powerful Mediterranean storm similar to 'Daniel', which hit the region on September 9, 2023.
An investigation by Annir, a fact-checking organization, found that the claim was misleading. The origin of the claim was traced back to a Facebook post on August 31, 2024, which was based on predictions by some weather models. However, further investigation revealed that the situation had changed, and there was no longer any credible evidence to support the claim.
The official Facebook page of the Libyan Space Sciences and Applications Institution (Rayah) reported on September 8, 2024, that the weather in Derna and other areas of the Green Mountain region was expected to be stable and calm in the coming days, with no forecast of severe or dangerous weather conditions.
The National Center of Meteorology in Libya also released a weather forecast for September 8, 2024, and the following two days, which did not mention any severe weather conditions or storms approaching the eastern coast. Instead, the center issued a weather alert about the formation of thunderclouds in the western mountain region and its southern areas, which could lead to flash floods.
The Libyan government had previously announced a public holiday on September 11, 2024, to commemorate the first anniversary of the 'Daniel' storm, but this was not related to any current weather threats. The government also declared a day of mourning for the victims of the floods and rains.
Based on the evidence, Annir concluded that the claim about 'Daniel 2' was misleading and not supported by credible sources. The organization urged people to rely on official weather forecasts and not to spread unverified information on social media.
This incident highlights the importance of fact-checking and verifying information, especially during times of potential crisis or severe weather events. It also underscores the need for official sources to provide accurate and timely information to the public.
Key points
- The claim about 'Daniel 2' was based on outdated and inaccurate information.
- Official sources, including the Libyan Space Sciences and Applications Institution and the National Center of Meteorology, reported calm and stable weather conditions in the eastern region.
- The Libyan government had previously announced a public holiday and day of mourning for the victims of the 'Daniel' storm, but this was not related to any current weather threats.
