Floods kill dozens in Morocco
Torrential rains trigger deadly flash floods in Safi
At least 37 people have died and dozens more were injured after sudden flash floods swept through Morocco’s Atlantic coastal province of Safi following torrential rains, authorities said. Emergency services reported that 14 people remain under medical care, including two in intensive care, while search-and-rescue operations continue amid concerns the toll could rise as teams reach isolated areas.
Intense rainfall caused wadis to burst their banks, inundating streets, homes and shops in Safi’s old town, sweeping away vehicles and rendering many roads impassable. Local media footage showed submerged cars, residents being rescued by boat and a woman being hauled to safety from muddy floodwaters near an ancient gate. Authorities said at least 70 homes and businesses were flooded.
Rescue efforts have involved civil protection units, the military and helicopters used to evacuate stranded families and deliver emergency supplies. Hospitals in the area have been strained by the influx of casualties. Power and water services were disrupted in several districts, schools were suspended while structural damage was assessed, and communities have begun cleaning out flooded properties.
The floods have also caused extensive damage to livelihoods, washing away vehicles, livestock and crops in rural areas. Many victims were reportedly caught while trying to cross flooded zones or sheltering in houses that collapsed under the force of the water.
Officials described the rainfall as unusually heavy for the region and noted vulnerability in low-lying communities and areas near riverbeds. Morocco has been experiencing heavy precipitation and snowfall in the Atlas Mountains after a prolonged drought that depleted key reservoirs. Climate specialists and aid groups warned that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent across North Africa, underscoring the need for improved early-warning systems and stronger flood defenses.
The government expressed condolences and said financial assistance would be provided to affected families. Cleanup and recovery operations are under way as authorities and relief organizations work to restore services and reach cut-off communities.
