A newly formed government team in eastern Libya announced an initiative to create an Emergency Management Department. The purpose is to coordinate a rapid, decisive response to any future crisis, including natural disasters like floods that previously devastated eastern cities. The plan was publicly disclosed as part of ongoing discussions after the most recent flood events, and the information was reported by RIA News.
Officials emphasized that climate change, which is repeatedly highlighted in United Nations assessments and climate summits, is pushing the country to strengthen its resilience. A proposal to establish an Office of Emergencies and Rapid Response is planned for consideration at the upcoming cabinet meeting. The goal is to provide reliable, well-coordinated support for this critical system across the country.
Earlier reports confirmed extensive damage from the floods, with at least 891 structures either ruined or severely compromised. The flooding affected Derna and several northeastern areas, leaving communities exposed to dangerous conditions and long-term disruption. Emergency planners are assessing the scale of the damage to prioritize housing, infrastructure, and essential services for the affected population.
The crisis intensified on September 10 when a powerful coastal storm known as Hurricane Daniel struck the region. Derna, located in the Cyrenaica area, endured the worst impact, including the failure of two major dams that worsened the humanitarian situation. In response, Libyan authorities declared a period of national mourning lasting three days and appealed for international aid and support to manage the immediate and ongoing needs of residents.
In a related note, authorities in China evacuated a large number of residents in anticipation of a strong typhoon, demonstrating a broader pattern of governments mobilizing resources and coordinating cross-border assistance to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events and related emergencies.