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Thirty-seven people have reportedly died following devastating flash floods triggered by torrential rains in Morocco’s Atlantic coastal province of Safi, authorities confirmed on Monday.
According to Reuters, 14 people remain hospitalized, with two in critical condition in intensive care units.
The heavy downpour on Sunday caused widespread flooding in Safi’s historic old town, a major port city about 300 kilometres south of Rabat. Homes and shops were inundated, vehicles swept away, and several roads in and around the city became impassable.
In response, schools in Safi were closed on Monday, allowing residents to assess damage and begin cleanup. Emergency services were deployed across the city to support ongoing rescue and recovery operations.
Videos shared by local media showed streets submerged in muddy water, partially or fully submerged vehicles, and rescue teams navigating flooded areas by boat. One dramatic clip posted by Safigoud.com captured a woman being pulled to safety near an ancient gate in the old town.
Authorities reported that at least 70 homes and shops were affected, raising concerns about displacement and additional humanitarian needs.
The floods come amid unusually heavy rainfall and snowfall in the Atlas Mountains, following seven consecutive years of drought that depleted Morocco’s major water reservoirs.
While the rains have provided some relief to drought-affected areas, they have also highlighted the country’s vulnerability to extreme weather events.
Officials have urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant as conditions continue to be closely monitored.
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