At least 21 people have died in Morocco due to severe flash floods triggered by torrential rainfall, local authorities announced Sunday. The affected region is the coastal province of Safi, located on the Atlantic coast approximately 330 kilometers south of Rabat.
According to a statement released by authorities in Safi province, the intense rainfall led to what they described as “exceptional flood surges.” In addition to the fatalities, 32 people were injured, most of whom have been treated and discharged from the hospital. The remaining injured individuals are currently under medical observation.
Reports indicate that the heavy downpour, which lasted for approximately one hour, resulted in significant damage throughout Safi and its surrounding areas. An estimated 70 homes and businesses were flooded, and ten vehicles were swept away by the raging waters. Numerous roads were also rendered impassable, hindering rescue efforts.
Images circulating on social media depict powerful currents of muddy water surging through the streets of Safi, carrying debris and vehicles along with them. Other visuals show a partially submerged mausoleum and civil defense boats responding to calls for help from stranded residents.
The General Directorate of Meteorology in Morocco has issued a warning for more heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected across the country on Tuesday. The recent rainfall and snowfall in the Atlas Mountains come after a prolonged period of drought, lasting seven years, which had severely depleted the country’s major water reservoirs. The government is urging citizens to take necessary precautions.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities working to assess the full extent of the damage and provide assistance to those affected by the devastating floods.
