The Libyan agency responsible for searching for missing persons announced on Thursday that it had identified 12 more victims of Storm Daniel, which devastated the city of Derna in September 2023. This brings the total number of identified victims to 390, including foreigners. The agency stated that it had completed a review of the results and verified that they met the necessary scientific standards.
Storm Daniel struck eastern Libya on September 10, 2023, causing widespread destruction and flooding in the city of Derna. The storm's impact was exacerbated by the collapse of two dams, which sent massive amounts of water flooding into the city, sweeping away homes, cars, and infrastructure. The disaster resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and displaced tens of thousands more.
According to the official death toll, 5,923 people lost their lives as a result of the storm, while thousands more remain missing. The Libyan government has estimated that the economic losses from the disaster are around $1.65 billion. The search agency has so far accounted for 3,297 people who went missing during the floods.
The identification process involves a thorough scientific analysis, which includes DNA testing and other forensic techniques. The agency works closely with international experts and organizations to ensure that the identification process is accurate and reliable. Once the identities of the victims are confirmed, their families are notified and provided with support.
The Libyan government has been working to provide assistance to the affected communities, including those who lost their homes and livelihoods during the storm. The government has also been working to restore basic services, such as electricity and water, to the affected areas. International organizations and countries have also provided significant aid and support to Libya in the aftermath of the disaster.
The identification of the victims is an important step in providing closure to their families and allowing them to begin the process of healing and recovery. The Libyan government and international community continue to work together to support the affected communities and provide them with the necessary assistance.
The search agency's efforts to identify the victims of Storm Daniel are ongoing, and it is expected that more identifications will be made in the coming weeks and months. The agency is working tirelessly to ensure that all those who lost their lives during the storm are identified and that their families receive the support they need.
Key points
- The Libyan agency responsible for searching for missing persons has identified 12 more victims of Storm Daniel, bringing the total number of identified victims to 390.
