Severe flash floods have killed at least 37 people in Morocco after intense rainfall battered parts of the country, according to local authorities cited by state-owned broadcaster 2M TV.
The flooding occurred on Sunday in Safi province, an Atlantic coastal area about 330 kilometres (205 miles) south of the capital, Rabat. Authorities said at least 14 others were injured and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Sudden and destructive flooding
Reports indicate that just one hour of exceptionally heavy rain was enough to overwhelm drainage systems in Safi’s historic old town. Floodwaters inundated homes and shops, swept away vehicles, and rendered several roads impassable, complicating rescue and emergency response operations.
Emergency services were deployed across affected neighbourhoods as officials worked to reach stranded residents and assess damage to infrastructure. Local authorities said search and rescue efforts were still ongoing in surrounding areas.
Weather shift after prolonged drought
The deadly floods come amid a sharp shift in Morocco’s weather patterns. The country has been experiencing widespread heavy rainfall, along with snowfall in the Atlas Mountains, following seven consecutive years of drought that severely depleted major water reservoirs and strained agriculture.
While the renewed precipitation offers some relief to water-stressed regions, experts warn that extreme and sudden rainfall increases the risk of flash floods, particularly in older urban areas with limited drainage capacity.
Moroccan authorities have urged residents in vulnerable zones to remain alert as unstable weather conditions are expected to continue in parts of the country.
Source:Africa Publicity
