Severe cold and flooding have worsened the plight of millions of displaced Palestinians in Gaza, killing 17 people, including four children. Aid agencies warn that Israeli restrictions are blocking delivery of emergency shelters and life-saving assistance in the besieged area.
Continuous rain has flooded around 90% of temporary shelters, leaving displaced families exposed to harsh winter conditions. Civil defense authorities report that many residents taking refuge in damaged buildings have also died due to structural collapses caused by the rain.
Read more: Heavy rains worsen Gaza misery, baby dies of cold
UNICEF said families displaced by the conflict are struggling to keep their children warm and dry amid days of heavy rain. Aid groups warn that children living in fragile tents now face deadly health risks from exposure and disease.
Around one million people are sheltering in tents not built to withstand extreme weather, according to UN agencies. Flooded roads and destroyed infrastructure have further hampered access to relief and emergency services.
Read more: Palestinians ‘face another layer of misery’ as storm batters Gaza: UN
Civil defense officials called on the international community for urgent action and aid, emphasizing that the floods have soaked blankets, mattresses, and clothing, adding to the already severe human suffering in Gaza.