Reconstruction of Libya's Derna will be difficult

Significance

The Derna flood is the largest natural disaster to have hit Libya in decades, with at least 4,300 confirmed dead and 8,500 missing. The public have accused east and west-based rival governments of failing to prevent the disaster.

Impacts

• Public anger about the disaster will feed existing criticism of poor public services and governance.
• Disadvantaged communities such as migrant workers living in poor and crowded conditions will be vulnerable to future disasters.
• East-based strongman Khalifa Haftar will deflect any attributions of personal responsibility.