On September 10th 2023, Storm Daniel unleashed its fury in Derna, Libya bringing the heaviest rainfall of the year. The bursting of the two dams and resultant flooding wreaked havoc on the city. The deluge not only submerged homes but also disrupted critical infrastructure, including major roads and bridges. On Thursday, September 14th, the Libyan Red Crescent reported that over 11,000 lives have been lost, while more than 10,000 people remain missing. UN’s International Organization for Migration reported that more than 30,000 people have been displaced since Monday.

According to the Libyan National Meteorological Center, the storm reached its zenith in northeastern Libya on September 10, bringing with it powerful winds ranging from 70 to 80 km/h. These intense winds led to disruptions in communications and resulted in the toppling of electricity towers and trees. Additionally, torrential rains, measuring between 150 to 240 mm, triggered flash floods in multiple cities. The Libyan meteorological service reported that the bursting of the dams led to a catastrophic and uncontrollable situation in which entire neighborhoods in Derna were submerged and their residents swept away by the floodwaters.