Asfi, Morocco – At least 37 people have died in devastating flash floods that struck the coastal city of Asfi, according to local authorities. Torrential rains overwhelmed the city, inundating residential areas and commercial properties.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing as officials fear the possibility of discovering additional victims. The floods represent the deadliest such event in Morocco in over a decade.
A statement released by local officials confirms that 14 individuals are currently receiving medical treatment at Mohammed V Hospital in Asfi. Two are reportedly in intensive care. Authorities have committed all available medical and emergency resources to assist the injured and provide support to affected families.
The intense rainfall flooded at least 70 homes and businesses in Asfi’s old city. The floodwaters also swept away numerous vehicles and caused significant damage to infrastructure, leading to traffic congestion and disruption across several streets.
The aftermath has left scenes of devastation and sorrow throughout the city. With the receding of floodwaters, streets are covered in mud, and overturned cars are visible. Civil defense teams and relief workers are actively working to clear debris and reopen roads that were previously submerged.
One Asfi resident described the event as a “day of sadness,” reflecting the shock and grief caused by the disaster. The General Directorate of Meteorology had issued warnings of heavy rainfall and potential thunderstorms across several regions of the country. They also predicted continued unstable weather patterns in the coming days, with the possibility of further localized thunderstorms.
While Morocco has been experiencing a severe drought for the past seven years, these floods highlight the vulnerability of coastal cities and older, structurally unsound areas to sudden and extreme weather events. The situation underscores the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness measures.
