Libya has suffered its worst natural disaster in recorded history as international charities seek to get aid to the country. 

Storm Daniel unleashed record amounts of rain in Libya, causing 11,300 deaths, 10,000 people injured and over 40,000 people displaced. 

Some 10,000 people are also missing in Derna, where two dams burst causing increased flooding. 

The Irish Red Cross says there is an urgent need for vital aid for survivors and rescue efforts. 

Red Cross Secretary General Deirdre Garvey said the flooding has caused widespread devestation. 

“What’s happening is that entire roads, and the entire coastal infrastructure of Libya has been flooded away,” she said. 

“Entire buildings have been swept out to sea.” 

Aftermath of flooding in Derna, a port city in Libya, 12/09/2023. Image: ZUMA Press, Inc. / Alamy Stock Photo

She said the Irish Red Cross and other Red Crosses across the world are raising money to send to the Libyan Red Crescent for relief. 

Libyan Health Minister Othman Abduljaleel also announced a vaccination campaign due to concerns about the spread of diseases from water pollution. 

“We will begin to administer the various vaccinations related to this disaster,” he said.  

“There are three target groups. The first category is the exhumation teams, the second category is the health sector worker, who are also exposed to all sources that may cause them health issues. 

“The third category is the children, especially in the age group from one to 15 years.”