In the Beqaa Valley of eastern Lebanon, an increasing number of displaced families have taken shelter in schools that have been repurposed into temporary accommodation due to ongoing conflicts and attacks. In one such school, the official secondary school of Qab Elias, families fleeing violence gather in classrooms, using makeshift methods to stay warm in the absence of proper heating facilities. The scene highlights the worsening humanitarian crisis as winter sets in, exacerbated by the challenges faced by those forcibly displaced from their homes.

During a recent field visit, Al Jazeera documented the dire conditions faced by these families. Many have resorted to burning tree branches and dry leaves in a desperate attempt to fend off the cold as inclement weather brings heavy rain and falling temperatures. The situation has reached critical levels with no means to procure fuel for heating, leaving these vulnerable populations exposed to the harsh elements without adequate protection against the frigid conditions that have come with the winter weather.

One official at the shelter expressed concern over the sudden degradation of weather conditions, revealing that the center had been caught unprepared without any fuel reserves. With dire calls for assistance, the local authorities and humanitarian organizations are urged to respond to the urgent needs of those seeking warmth and safety, highlighting the pressing challenges posed by existing conflicts and natural elements in the region.