Severe winter weather has caused widespread destruction across the Gaza Strip, with more than 100 residential structures either partially or completely collapsing amid heavy rain and powerful winds.
Local emergency officials reported that at least 17 apartment buildings were destroyed entirely, while around 90 others sustained varying degrees of structural damage. Many of the affected buildings had already been weakened by months of conflict, leaving them unable to withstand the latest storm.
The Gaza winter storm has also devastated makeshift shelters housing displaced families. According to civil defence authorities, flooding has affected nearly 90 percent of tents set up for those forced from their homes, exposing thousands of people to freezing temperatures and harsh conditions.
Emergency services have been stretched to the limit. Since the storm began last week, rescue teams have responded to more than 5,000 distress calls, ranging from building collapses to families seeking urgent assistance due to flooding and exposure.
The human toll continues to rise. Officials confirmed that at least 17 people have died from extreme cold, including four children. In addition, dozens of others were killed when buildings compromised by earlier bombardment gave way during the storm, adding to the growing humanitarian crisis.
Gaza storm damage has highlighted the vulnerability of infrastructure across the enclave, particularly in areas where displaced residents have little protection from severe weather. Aid workers warn that without urgent shelter support and winter supplies, the risk to civilians—especially children and the elderly—will continue to increase as harsh conditions persist.
