Sat Dec 27 22:54:39 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Braces for Potential Storm as Displaced Palestinians Suffer Through Winter Rains
Gaza Strip – Tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians in Gaza are facing yet another crisis as authorities warn that heavy downpours are expected to intensify into a potentially devastating storm. This comes as the region already grapples with the aftermath of extensive Israeli bombardment over the past two years, which has left countless families living in tents and makeshift shelters exposed to the elements.
A polar low-pressure system, the fourth to hit the area this winter, is forecast to arrive starting Monday, bringing freezing temperatures, strong winds, and torrential rain. The previous three storms have already exacerbated the dire living conditions of displaced families, flooding tents and shelters.
“I could not find anywhere to live in Gaza, except Gaza Port,” Mohammed Maslah, a displaced Palestinian in Gaza City, told Al Jazeera. “I’m forced to stay here because my home is under Israeli control. After just a few hours of rain, we were soaked.”
Reports indicate that at least 15 people, including three babies, have died from hypothermia this month due to the harsh weather conditions. Buildings weakened by the ongoing conflict have also collapsed.
Aid organizations are urgently calling for Israel to allow more shelters and humanitarian aid into the territory. Ibrahim Abu al-Reesh, head of field operations for the Civil Defence in the Gaza Port area, said his teams are working tirelessly to provide emergency assistance, including covering damaged tents with plastic sheeting.
Al Jazeera’s Ibrahim Al Khalili reports that the winter weather is compounding the suffering of displaced Palestinians, highlighting the recurring misery as “each rain fills neighbourhoods with muddy water.”
The looming storm arrives as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to visit Washington, DC, to discuss the next phase of the ceasefire. Progress on the peace process remains slow, with challenges including the deployment of an international stabilization force and the disarmament of Hamas. While the ceasefire has partially held, violations persist, and since its implementation, over 400 Palestinians have been killed and over 1,100 wounded, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a staggering Palestinian death toll of at least 71,266, with over 171,219 injured. As the international community grapples with the political complexities, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to deepen, leaving displaced families vulnerable to the increasingly severe weather conditions.
First Piper 