Naharnet

Refugees Evacuated, Families Trapped as Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc across Lebanon

Flooding caused by heavy rains has caused damages across Lebanon, trapping Lebanese families and destroying Syrian refugee encampments.

"Since 2 am, Lebanese Red Cross crews have been evacuating and assisting dozens of Syrian families in the Akkar plain region who have been hit by flash floods from the waters of the al-Ostwan and al-Kabir rivers," the National News Agency said.

In the northern region of Minieh, more than 50 families were trapped by flood waters that filled the underground floors of some buildings and covered areas around them, amid water levels of 1.5 meter.

Flood waters meanwhile invaded agricultural fields and homes in the Akkar region, especially in the outskirts of Quleiat, trapping some families and destroying crops.

In Chekka, waters from the al-Osfour river drowned nearby fields and stormed into the Palmera resort.

"Security agencies and Civil Defense crews are pumping water out of rooms and challets and pulling out submerged cars," NNA said.

Restaurants on the two banks of the river were also invaded by flooding water.

In the South, the heavy rains raised the water levels of the Hasbani river, which overflowed and submerged nearby groves and parks.

High Relief Commission chief Maj. Gen. Mohammed Kheir meanwhile inspected the bridge of the al-Shalfeh river that connects the Zgharta district to Tripoli's Abi Samra, which is facing the threat of collapse.

The bridge has incurred major cracks after being sumberged by flooding waters overnight.

Engineering crews from the Tripoli Municipality examined the bridge and decided to close it pending maintenance.

Source: Naharnet


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