Storm Byron Deepens Crisis for Displaced Families in Gaza

(MENAFN) The United Nations body responsible for Palestinian refugees has cautioned that Storm Byron has significantly worsened the harsh circumstances already facing large numbers of displaced residents across the Gaza Strip. Many of those affected are currently taking refuge in tents or partially ruined structures that offer little protection from the elements.

In a statement shared on Tuesday via the US-based social media platform X, UNRWA explained that the powerful storm has heightened dangers for families who were forced to flee their homes, as extreme weather conditions batter overcrowded and insecure shelters.

“Storm Byron is worsening the already dire living conditions of thousands of people living in tents or damaged shelters,” the agency said.

UNRWA further noted that despite ongoing attempts to assist displaced households, Israeli authorities have, for several months, prevented the organization from directly delivering humanitarian supplies into Gaza. This obstruction has sharply reduced the amount of aid that can reach vulnerable communities.

According to the agency, there have been fatalities after weakened buildings collapsed on families seeking refuge inside them, while some children have lost their lives as a result of exposure to low temperatures.

“This must stop,” UNRWA said, urging for swift and unrestricted entry of humanitarian assistance. “Aid must be allowed in at scale, now.”

Over the past week, thousands of tents sheltering survivors of Israel’s war have been inundated by rainwater, turning living areas into flooded spaces. As a result, mattresses, clothing, and food stocks have been drenched, leaving hundreds of Palestinian families without adequate warmth or safe shelter in the cold conditions.

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