Al-Ahrar’s correspondent in Tarhuna reported that ambulance and emergency teams were able to recover the bodies of 3 brothers who died consequently of the floods that swept the city yesterday, Friday.
The reporter added that the three brothers were found in Wadi Tajmut in Tarhuna, and their bodies were transported to the complex clinic in the city of Tarhuna.
For its part, the Bani Walid Ambulance and Emergency Service mourned two of its members, Haitham Al-Ahouri and Malek al-Deeb, affiliated with the bani Walid branch.
Their car was swept away by floods while they were heading to the city of Tarhuna to participate in rescue operations, yesterday, Friday.
For his part, the Sheikh of the locality and head of the Bani Walid Dispute Resolution Committee, Mustafa Tamer Al-futmani, confirmed that 3 bodies were recovered in Bani Walid, namely ambulance and emergency personnel, and a person whose identity papers are algerian, whose family has not yet been identified, and who is in Bani Walid hospital.
Al-Futmani confirmed that there is varying damage to citizens’ property and livelihoods, explaining that it has not been fully accounted for yet.
Al-Futmani also pointed out the damage to the Nawras Bridge, which he confirmed was no longer usable, pointing out that the situation now in Bani Walid is good and that the weather is warm after the heavy rains stopped, according to him.
The prime Minister of the National Unity Government, Abdul Hamid Al-Dabaiba, mourned the two members of the ambulance and emergency service from Bani walid and offered condolences to the people of Tarhuna for the loss of 3 brothers from the Al-Thabet family who died as an inevitable result of the floods.
Source: Libya Al-Ahrar Channel
What measures can be taken to improve community preparedness for flooding events similar to those in Tarhuna?
Interview: The Impact of Recent Flooding in Tarhuna – Insights from Disaster Management Expert Dr. Layla Harrari
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today,Dr. Harrari. The recent floods in Tarhuna have led to tragic losses,including the deaths of three brothers and two emergency responders. Can you provide us with an overview of the situation and its implications for community safety?
Dr. Layla Harrari: Thank you for having me.The flooding in Tarhuna has indeed been devastating, leading to notable loss of life and property damage. As reported, the bodies of three brothers were recovered in Wadi tajmut, while two emergency responders tragically lost their lives when their vehicle was swept away. This situation highlights the urgent need for robust emergency response systems and community preparedness in the face of natural disasters.
Editor: You mentioned community preparedness. What practical steps can local governments and communities take to enhance their disaster response capabilities?
Dr. Harrari: Firstly, investing in better infrastructure is crucial. As an example, the Nawras Bridge, which is now unusable, needs to be monitored and reinforced to withstand heavy rainfall. Additionally, training and equipping local emergency service teams can ensure timely and efficient responses during emergencies. Conducting regular disaster drills and community awareness programs can also prepare citizens for such unfortunate events, minimizing casualties in the future.
Editor: Given the emotional toll on families and communities, what kind of support should be available for those affected by such disasters, especially the families who lost loved ones?
dr.Harrari: Mental health support is vital in the aftermath of such tragedies. Providing counseling services for bereaved families and affected individuals can help them cope with their loss. Community support systems, such as food and financial assistance, are also essential to help families rebuild their lives. It’s critically important for local governments to engage with NGOs that specialize in disaster recovery to create a comprehensive support framework.
Editor: The Prime Minister expressed condolences for the lives lost in this disaster. How important is leadership in crisis situations like this?
Dr. Harrari: Strong leadership is crucial during any crisis. Leaders play a significant role in maintaining public morale, ensuring transparent interaction, and mobilizing resources for relief efforts. Acknowledging the sacrifices of emergency personnel,like in the case of Haitham Al-Ahouri and Malek al-deeb,fosters a sense of solidarity and encourages community resilience. Moreover, it helps keep the affected regions in the national dialog, which is critical for securing necessary aid and funding for recovery.
Editor: Lastly, what can citizens do on an individual level to prepare for potential flooding or other disasters?
Dr. Harrari: Individuals can take several proactive steps. First, they should stay informed about their local weather conditions and potential flood risks. Creating a personal emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and essential supplies can save lives. Residents should also consider participating in local preparedness training, which can equip them with skills to help themselves and others during emergencies. fostering a culture of preparedness within the community can significantly mitigate the impacts of disasters like the recent floods in Tarhuna.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. harrari, for sharing these critically important insights. The recent flooding in Tarhuna is a stark reminder of the forces of nature and the essential preparations we must undertake to safeguard lives and properties.
Dr. Harrari: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this pressing issue. It’s vital that we learn from these events to improve our emergency response systems and community resilience.