In response to the devastating floods in Libya, Muntada Aid has launched an emergency appeal to reach and help people affected.

The death toll stands at more than 5,000 in Libya but could rise significantly and rescue teams are warning over the threat of disease spreading.

Multi-storey buildings were washed into the sea while families slept on Sunday, when a powerful storm burst dams and left Derna severely flooded. 

The number of dead could reach 20,000, according to the city's mayor, with at least 30,000 displaced. 

Rescue teams have arrived from Egypt, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Qatar, the mayor said, as the beach remains littered with clothes, toys and furniture. 

Deep mud covers the streets, which are also strewn with hundreds of wrecked cars and fallen trees - one car was even wedged on a second-floor balcony. 

Libyan officials appealed for international help on Monday, warning the country doesn't have the necessary experience to deal with a disaster of this scale.