Flash floods triggered by torrential rains have killed at least 37 people in Morocco’s Atlantic coastal province of Safi, according to a statement from authorities on Monday.
The disaster has left the port city reeling. In addition to the fatalities, 14 people remain hospitalized, with two patients currently in intensive care.
The Destruction
Heavy rainfall on Sunday overwhelmed the city’s infrastructure. Floodwaters inundated homes and shops, particularly within the historic old town.
The force of the water was strong enough to sweep away vehicles and sever multiple road connections in and around the city, which lies about 300 km (205 miles) south of the capital, Rabat.
Local authorities reported that at least 70 homes and shops suffered significant flood damage.
Rescue and Recovery
On Monday, authorities suspended school classes as the city began the arduous task of damage assessment and cleanup.
Footage circulating in local media captured the scale of the crisis. Videos showed streets turned into rivers and cars submerged in muddy water. Emergency services deployed boats to navigate flooded neighborhoods and conduct rescue operations.
One dramatic video posted by a local news outlet showed a woman being pulled to safety. She had become trapped in muddy floodwaters near an ancient gate in Safi’s old town.
Climate Context
This sudden deluge comes after a prolonged dry spell. Morocco is currently experiencing heavy rain and snowfall in the Atlas Mountains, marking a sharp contrast to seven years of drought that had previously depleted many of the nation’s main reservoirs.
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