Torrential rainfall has submerged roads, homes and vehicles across Tripoli, disrupting transport and emergency services in the Libyan capital.

Tripoli, Libya — At least two people have died after heavy rains triggered widespread flooding in Libya’s capital, Tripoli, leaving roads submerged, disrupting electricity supplies and forcing emergency teams to rescue stranded residents.

The downpour overwhelmed parts of the city’s drainage system, sending floodwaters into streets, vehicles and buildings, including Tripoli’s central hospital.

Authorities closed several roads as rescue workers responded to flooding across affected neighborhoods.

Two killed as heavy rains flood Tripoli

Jumhouria Bank confirmed that one of its employees died from electrocution after floodwaters reached electrical infrastructure.

Rescue teams also recovered the body of a second man from a vehicle that had become submerged in floodwater.

Emergency workers were deployed to assist motorists and residents trapped by rising water, while authorities began pumping water from flooded streets and other affected areas.

The deaths have raised concerns about the dangers posed by flooding in densely populated parts of the capital.

Tripoli flooding disrupts electricity and hospital access

The General Electricity Company of Libya temporarily cut power in some districts as a safety precaution, seeking to reduce the risk of electrical accidents.

Several roads were closed after becoming impassable, disrupting movement across parts of the city.

Floodwaters also entered Tripoli’s central hospital, affecting access to the facility and adding pressure on emergency services responding to the storm.

Authorities continued drainage operations and rescue efforts as they worked to restore access to flooded areas.

Libya’s drainage problems raise concerns after deadly floods

The latest flooding has renewed concerns about Tripoli’s drainage infrastructure and its ability to handle intense rainfall.

Parts of the capital have struggled with water accumulation during heavy storms, leaving roads and buildings vulnerable to flooding.

Libya has experienced several destructive flooding events in recent years.

In September 2023, catastrophic floods devastated the eastern city of Derna after two dams collapsed during Storm Daniel, killing thousands of people and destroying large sections of the city.

Although the latest flooding in Tripoli is far smaller in scale, it has again highlighted the risks posed by extreme rainfall and inadequate drainage infrastructure.