Even if you get chickenpox, you have to endure it… A Gaza summer that leaves scars on your face and heart The sweltering summer heat in the Gaza Strip is suffocating. In this densely populated area, with a population of 2 million and a size of 365 square kilometers, the narrow streets are filled with people, and the temperature soars to over 38 degrees Celsius every day. The heat index, which takes into account the humidity, makes it feel like over 40 degrees. In such scorching heat, the residents of Gaza have to spend their summer. Gaza's power generation capacity has been significantly reduced due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas that began in 2007. Currently, Gaza generates only 50 megawatts of electricity per day, while its demand is 450-500 megawatts, seven to eight times more. As a result, the Gaza Strip has been suffering from chronic power shortages. In the past, Gaza's residents used to suffer from power outages for 8-12 hours a day. However, in the past year, with the help of UNRWA, Gaza has been able to avoid power outages of more than 8 hours. Despite this, the lives of Gaza's residents have not become easier. The chronic power shortage has become a chronic problem. The power outage schedule, which was previously 3-4 hours in the morning and 3-4 hours in the evening, has now been extended to 6-8 hours in the morning and 6-8 hours in the evening. Even when power is supplied, the voltage is low, so even major hospitals and dialysis centers cannot operate normally. The lives of Gaza's residents are getting more difficult day by day. The water shortage is also severe. The desalination plant, which supplies 20,000 cubic meters of water per day, only produces 5,000 cubic meters of water due to the power shortage. As a result, residents have to buy water from private water suppliers at a high price. The difficult situation in Gaza has been exacerbated by the recent heatwave. The heatwave has caused a surge in demand for electricity and water, which has further worsened the chronic shortages. The situation is so dire that even basic medical care is not available. Gaza's hospitals are overflowing with patients, and medical staff are working in extreme conditions without air conditioning. The lack of electricity and water has made it difficult to maintain proper hygiene, which has led to the spread of diseases such as diarrhea and chickenpox. The Gaza Strip's healthcare system is on the brink of collapse. The chronic shortages of electricity, water, and medical supplies have made it difficult to provide proper medical care. The situation is dire, and the international community must take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of Gaza's residents.
Even as the world grapples with scorching summer temperatures, the residents of Gaza face an intensified ordeal due to the extensive destruction of infrastructure. Last month, the United Nations reported that in just two weeks, 9,300 cases of fever were reported in Gaza. This surge in infectious diseases is attributed to poor sanitation, overcrowding, inadequate medical facilities, and seasonal factors.
The Korea Herald has partnered with civil society organizations Adi and the Palestinian Women's Council Union to share interviews of Palestinians suffering from the war. Living in a camp, the narrator now regrets that summer is the hardest season. Before the war, they took for granted the use of air conditioning or fans. Now, their dwellings have been destroyed, and the electricity from the Israeli power plant has been cut off.
Generating electricity requires the use of small generators, with priority given to hospitals. The tents absorb heat during the day, making them feel like ovens, and the lack of water often leads to the use of wet cloths on the face and head. Although the situation does not improve at night, it becomes more unbearable. The lack of sleep, fatigue, and headaches make each day unbearable.
Nightmares are not only caused by the heat but also by the sight of a large rat running through the tent after entering through the blanket. The fear of being attacked by rats keeps them awake at night. The basic act of getting a good night's sleep has turned into a nightmare. The summer months bring a rise in diseases in Gaza. Recently, the narrator contracted measles, one of the most challenging experiences of their life.
The fever, chills, and rashes left them feeling like fire was burning under their skin, and the constant heat made it difficult to sleep. They were quarantined at home, separated from their family, and struggled to find fresh food due to its high cost. The scars from the measles remain visible on their face, and seeing their reflection in the mirror often brings a sense of despair.
They often wonder about their basic needs, such as safe drinking water and a good night's sleep, which are now a constant source of worry. The narrator hopes that others will not forget them and will share their struggles, providing a sense of hope and community.
Written by urgent.news from Hankyoreh's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
