Flash Floods Kill 21 in Morocco's Safi

Morocco Floods: At Least 21 Dead, 32 Injured After Torrential Downpour

At least twenty-one people have lost their lives following devastating flash floods in Morocco’s Atlantic coastal province of Safi on Sunday, according to Moroccan authorities.

The floods, triggered by an hour of particularly heavy rainfall, also left thirty-two people injured. Thankfully, officials stated that the majority of those injured have already been discharged from hospital.

The old town of Safi bore the brunt of the disaster, with homes and businesses inundated. The force of the water swept away vehicles and severely disrupted transportation, cutting off many roads in Safi and the surrounding areas. Rescue efforts are still underway, aiming to reach those affected and provide assistance.

This extreme weather event comes as Morocco grapples with the aftermath of a seven-year drought which had left many of its major reservoirs critically low. The recent rainfall and snowfall in the Atlas Mountains, while offering some respite from the drought, proved too intense for the infrastructure to absorb.

“The situation is quite grave, and we are working tirelessly to assist those impacted by the floods,” a local Safi official stated. Further updates will be provided as the rescue operations progress and the full extent of the damage becomes clear.

The incident highlights the increasing vulnerability of regions to extreme weather events, even as they face long-term challenges like drought.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE