Occupied Palestinian Territory: Winter Storm Situation Report (as of 16 January 2013, 1500 hrs)

Highlights

• A winter storm, characterized by torrential rains strong winds, low temperatures and snowfall the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) between 7 and 10 January.

• Some 12,500 people were negatively impacted by the loss of, or damage to, residences and agricultural livelihoods due to flooding and strong winds

• Some 200 homes were severely damaged or destroyed and 650 people were temporarily displaced.

• The weather conditions exacerbated pre vulnerabilities stemming from movement, access and planning restrictions faced by Palestinian communities.

• This extreme weather event has highlighted the need for increased investment in disaster risk reduction, preparedness and response capacities of the State of Palestine.