Tripoli is still clearing up after yesterday’s rain deluge that left roads, motorways, homes and commercial premises flooded. At least one person drowned. Many escaped with their lives from their floating cars.
The downpour was extraordinary. About 152 mm of rain well in a day. This compares to Libya’s annual average of 200-400 mm and October’s average of 25-42 mm.
The effects were optically frightening to sights of floating cars, people swimming for their lives and abodes and premises flooded with a thick residue of mud to clear up.
Flooded sections of roads and motorways are a regular occurrence in Libya. But the quantity of rain in such a short period of time tested the drainage system. The Libyan negative cultural trait of throwing rubbish onto the ground came home to roost as drains were blocked by rubbish – exacerbating the crisis.
The famous Martyr Square was temporarily flooded.
However, by lunchtime the rains had moved on, the sun came out and Libya Herald was able to drive to most places in Tripoli unhindered. However, the usual blackspots were still flooded.
The authorities were out in force from yesterday and most – but not all - of the mess caused by the floods and blocked drains were clear by today.
Libya has had a tradition of flooding from the Italian colonial era. It continued under the Qaddafi regime and continues today post-Qaddafi.
The floods have reignited the annual debate about flooded roads and blocked rain drains. Many Libyans are complaining that with Libya’s oil wealth and in 2026 – this should not happen.
But it has and it is hoped that the government has taken onboard some lessons from yesterday. Climatic change is a present reality and Libyan governments must take that onboard.