Thousands feared dead as flooding sweeps Libya
Widespread flooding in Libya, following a powerful storm, has killed more than 2,000 people and left thousands missing, according to the leader of the east Libyan government – which is not recognised internationally.
Speaking to the BBC, Jalel Harchaoui, a Libya specialist has said the death toll could reach as many as “several thousand” people.
A state of extreme emergency was declared on Sunday after Storm Daniel made landfall.
A curfew in the east has been imposed and schools and shops ordered to close.
The eastern cities of Benghazi, Sousse, Derna and Al-Marj were all affected.
Seven Libyan army personnel have gone missing during the ongoing rescue efforts.
The death toll is expected to continue rising. The Libyan Red Cross said at least 150 homes have been destroyed.