Gaza residents face worsening conditions as rainy season begins

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned that the onset of the rainy season is exacerbating the dire living conditions for residents in Gaza. Approximately 1.2 million people, or 58 percent of the population, are living in housing conditions described as ranging from critical to catastrophic.

More than 65 percent of families are residing in tents or emergency shelters, with over half of those in very poor conditions. This vulnerability is heightened by the risk of weather-related hazards and the potential collapse of structures already damaged by conflict. Recent incidents in Gaza City included a building collapse on Friday that resulted in minor injuries, following a separate collapse on Wednesday that killed at least 21 people, including 11 children.

Humanitarian partners have provided rapid assistance to 200 households and routine shelter support to nearly 6,600 families, including supplies such as tents, tarps, solar lights, and blankets. However, OCHA emphasizes that these efforts are insufficient for the scale of the need. The UN is urging Israeli authorities to permit the entry of heavy machinery, engine oil, and durable building materials necessary to repair damaged structures and improve safety for the population.