Jakarta, IO – Flash floods hit a number of regions in eastern Libya on Monday (11/9). Authorities reported more than 2,000 people dead and thousands more missing.
The flash floods were caused by Mediterranean Storm Daniel and heavy rain which hit the areas of Benghazi, Sousse, Al Bayda, Al-Marj and Derna. In light of the devastation, the Libyan parliament has declared three days of mourning, per CNNIndonesia, Wednesday (13/9).
They even declared an extreme state of emergency, closing schools, shops and imposing a curfew. The saddest part is that this disaster occurred in the midst of the political crisis that is still plaguing Libya.
The internationally recognized government, based in Tripoli, does not control the flood-hit areas of eastern Libya.
Foreign Ministry (Kemlu) confirmed that no Indonesian citizens were impacted by the floods. The Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) in Tripoli continues to monitor the developments of situation.
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Indonesian citizens to be alert and follow weather forecasts on official government media. Kemlu director for citizen protection Judha Nugraha said intense communication has been established with the authorities in Eastern Libya and the Indonesian community.
According to the Indonesian Embassy, there are currently 282 Indonesian citizens living in Libya, especially western Libya. They also appealed to Indonesian citizens throughout Libya who are facing an emergency to contact the embassy’s 24-hour hotline +218 94 891. (un)