Heavy winter rains and high winds are pounding flimsy tents and tarps in the Gaza Strip, putting vulnerable families at greater risk, UN humanitarians said Wednesday.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned that low temperatures particularly threaten newborns. The agency said it has scaled up distribution of winter clothes for children from 5,000 to 8,000 kits per day.
About 200 families from shoreline communities planned to relocate Wednesday to a new site in eastern Khan Younis to escape flooding, according to municipal authorities. OCHA said tents, tarpaulins, bed sheets and winter clothes are being distributed, while flood‑mitigation efforts include sandbagging, clearing drains and removing solid waste.
Partners reported that 65 classrooms previously used as shelters have been cleaned and reopened for learning, though education materials remain blocked from entering Gaza. Save the Children said Israel’s restrictions on aid have cut children off from psychosocial support, forcing closures of four child‑friendly spaces during recent storms.
Poor ground conditions and lack of clothing have kept many children inside tents, while older children have missed activities to help repair shelters.
Food security efforts continue, with 260,000 people receiving parcels and flour this month through 60 distribution points, including a new site in Beit Lahiya. OCHA said 3,500 veterinary kits entered Gaza last week for the first time since August, distributed to more than 100 herders and donkey owners.
Security incidents remain a concern, posing risks to civilians and humanitarian teams, OCHA added.