UN agency warns winter storms worsen Gaza's dire humanitarian crisis

Heavy winter storms are severely worsening the already catastrophic living conditions for displaced Palestinians in Gaza, the United Nations relief agency has warned. The UNRWA stated that unhindered humanitarian aid is essential to help families face the cold, as rains flood makeshift shelters and increase the risk of disease.

Flooding and Dire Shelter Conditions

Recent downpours have turned streets into rivers and soaked through thousands of tents, submerging some completely in areas like Rafah. Gaza's Civil Defense evacuated dozens of flooded tents, while officials warned that over 250,000 families in displacement camps are vulnerable. The UN agency described "flooded streets and soaked tents" as making dire conditions "even more dangerous," highlighting the increased risk of illness from cold, damp, and unhygienic environments.

Call for Unrestricted Aid Delivery

UNRWA stressed that the suffering is preventable and that the ability to deliver assistance without obstruction is critical. "That would help families face winter in safety and dignity," the agency said. However, the Gaza government media office reported that Israel has allowed in only about 38% of the aid agreed upon under the current ceasefire, severely hampering relief efforts.

Massive Scale of Destruction and Need

The crisis unfolds amid a massive shelter deficit. Prior estimates indicate Gaza needs approximately 300,000 tents and prefabricated units to meet basic needs after two years of war that destroyed infrastructure. The United Nations estimates the total cost of reconstructing Gaza at about $70 billion following a conflict that killed more than 70,300 Palestinians and wounded over 171,000 before a ceasefire took effect in October.