Khan Younis warns 900,000 face flood risk as winter storms near

Municipal authorities in Khan Younis warned that over 900,000 Palestinians face severe flooding risks as winter storms approach southern Gaza. Hundreds of thousands of displaced people in makeshift tents are particularly vulnerable to the incoming heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Mayor Ala al-Din al-Batta stated at an emergency committee press conference that the city shelters nearly 40% of Gaza’s population. Successive displacement waves, especially from Rafah, have forced many into low-lying western areas with fragile shelter.

Officials reported that Israeli military operations damaged or destroyed more than 85% of roads, utilities, and drainage systems. This destruction severely limits the municipality's capacity to manage rainwater and protect densely populated displacement camps from rising waters.

Access constraints imposed by Israeli forces east of the Yellow Line hinder repair efforts. Approximately 17 million tons of rubble block roads and drainage channels, preventing crews from clearing debris and reaching areas most at risk of inundation.

Al-Batta noted that most heavy machinery was destroyed, with remaining vehicles being over 20 years old. Fuel and spare part shortages further restrict operations, leaving teams unable to perform essential maintenance or clear blocked stormwater networks effectively.

Spokesperson Saeb Laqan said an approaching low-pressure system brings heightened danger due to lacking resources. Donated pumps and excavators remain stuck at border crossings due to Israeli restrictions, with some equipment waiting over a year for entry.