Libya faces a growing risk of infectious disease outbreaks one week after massive floods struck the country.

Heavy rain brought by a low-pressure system caused dams to collapse in eastern Libya on September 11. The city of Derna was hit by floods and buildings were swept away in vast areas.

Derna's mayor said the death toll is about 8,000 and could exceed 20,000.

People are still without water and power. Local authorities are advising residents in some areas to evacuate outside the city amid growing risks of cholera and other infections.

Floodwaters may have displaced landmines left from years of civil war that raged until three years ago. Authorities have warned residents and rescue workers to exercise caution.

The United Nations is calling on the international community to provide more support, as help is urgently needed to protect those who were rescued.