UN releases $10 million from emergency fund for flood-hit Libya

GENEVA

The UN aid chief announced Thursday $10 million from the UN's emergency fund for Libya, where thousands were killed in devastating floods.

"I immediately released $10 million from the UN's emergency fund CERF, and an appeal for additional support is on its way," Martin Griffiths said in a statement that described the scale of the disaster as "shocking and heartbreaking."

"Getting lifesaving supplies to people, prevent a secondary health crisis, and swiftly restore some kind of normality must override any other concern at this difficult time for Libya," said Griffiths.

He said he commends Libya's neighbors and other countries who have stepped up, sending in search and rescue teams, doctors and supplies.

At least 6,000 people have been killed and thousands remain missing from weekend floods in eastern Libya, according to officials.

Torrential rains swept through several regions, most notably in the cities of Derna, Benghazi, Al-Bayda, Al-Marj and Soussa.