Emergency Storm Response in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley

In Lebanon, 70,000 refugees are at risk during extreme weather events. Of that number, over half are children, some 40,000. Last month, Lebanon was battered by two heavy storms. The impact on Syrian refugees living in tent camps was particularly acute.

The first storm, Norma, struck on January 6 with heavy rain, high winds and colder temperatures across Lebanon. Some areas experienced flooding, erosion and heavy snowfall. The second storm, Miriam, hit just 10 days later, on January 16, with strong winds, thunderstorms and additional snowfall.

Anera’s extreme weather response in Lebanon

Thanks to an immediate response to our urgent appeal from our donor community, Anera was able to provide much needed supplies to refugees in Lebanon. Anera delivered 500 food packages, 1,000 wool blankets, 6,000 liters of fuel and 500 portable emergency lamps to 500 families. Each family received two blankets, an emergency light, and a food parcel.

Anera delivered the emergency aid to Alkaram camp in Arsal, a remote area of the Bekaa Valley in the Baalbek-Hermel Governorate, 1,550 meters above sea level.

The effects of the storm will continue to impact refugees, especially those living in informal settlements. These refugees are the most vulnerable as their dwellings expose them to the elements and don’t provide the protection they need from the cold and freezing temperatures.

Anera will continue to provide relief and support, and our Lebanon team will continue to coordinate with other organizations across Lebanon to respond quickly to the most neglected areas.

Children in Arsal

Storm impacted areas. Source: Daily Storm Situation Report by the UNHCR Inter-Agency team.

The temporary habitations in Arsal are particularly vulnerable to heavy snowfall and extreme weather.

The heavy precipitation creates muddy conditions in the camp.

Arsal

Arsal

Arsal

Arsal

Arsal

Arsal

Arsal

Arsal

Arsal

Arsal