Bad news continues to shadow Gaza City as the rains arrive. In the midst of Israeli bombardments and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, city authorities warn that the heavy rain that began this morning and is expected to persist could trigger floods. Attacks by the Israeli army have left large portions of the sewer network damaged, meaning waste and rainwater can back up into streets and homes. The threat of rapid water accumulation is real in neighborhoods already stretched by years of conflict.
Since early today rainfall has been intense across Gaza City, raising fears of overflow that could threaten residents due to the extensive damage to sewer and storm drainage networks. Asem Alnabi, the spokesperson, noted that the army has destroyed more than 175,000 meters of sewer pipes, 15,000 meters of storm water drainage, and 105,000 meters of water supply lines. The prolonged downpour deepens concerns about the resilience of essential services, as repairs and replenishment supplies stall in a difficult security environment.
After more than a year of war in the Gaza Strip, Alnabi stressed the urgent need to provide pipes and materials to repair the drainage system of the Sheikh Radwan basin. He added that delays in deliveries could trigger a disaster, endangering the lives of residents and those displaced by the conflict. Gaza authorities, controlled by Hamas, have reported around 44,200 deaths since the offensive began on October 7, 2023. The damage to water and sanitation infrastructure compounds humanitarian challenges, affecting health, hygiene, and access to safe water for families across Gaza. Officials warn that contaminated floodwaters and waterborne diseases could spread as conditions worsen. Aid organizations call for rapid restoration of essential services and for safe, secure access to water, shelter, and medical support for the most vulnerable communities, while contending with ongoing restrictions and security concerns that hinder relief efforts. The Sheikh Radwan basin remains a critical point in flood control, and rapid work there is seen as key to preventing further inundation in crowded neighborhoods. With rain continuing and forecasts uncertain, a coordinated response is needed to stabilize water systems, provide temporary relief, and protect vulnerable residents during this challenging weather phase.