Mozambique Floods: "Most Severe in a Generation" Prompts Mass Rescues

Mozambique is currently experiencing extensive flooding, described as the most severe in a generation. The crisis has prompted rescue operations for tens of thousands of individuals, with international teams from Brazil, South Africa, and the UK providing crucial assistance.

Impact and Evacuations

Continuous rainfall over two weeks has caused significant flooding across southern and central Mozambique. The Inkomati River has notably overflowed its banks near Marracuene, a town located 30 kilometers north of the capital, Maputo.

Evacuated families have sought refuge in temporary shelters, often forced to abandon their belongings. Approximately 4,000 people are currently housed in six centers, utilizing facilities such as schools and churches. Farmers from low-lying areas, including Hobjana, have reported substantial losses, encompassing homes, livestock, and vital rice fields.

Farmers from low-lying areas... have reported substantial losses, including homes, livestock, and rice fields.

Casualties and Affected Population

Provisional data from the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction indicates that over 642,000 people have been affected by the flooding since January 7th. During this period, 12 fatalities have been recorded. The total number of deaths in Mozambique since the rainy season commenced in October stands at 125.

In the Marracuene municipality alone, over 10,000 people are impacted. Mayor Shafee Sidat has highlighted challenges in rescue efforts, noting that some residents have shown reluctance to vacate high-risk areas despite the imminent danger.

Ongoing Concerns and Logistics

Concerns persist regarding potential additional water releases from a South African dam on the Inkomati River. Such releases could exacerbate flooding in downstream areas like Marracuene before the water eventually reaches the Indian Ocean.

Aerial observations confirm widespread inundation, leaving hundreds of families isolated. Road closures, including the vital N1 highway which links Maputo and Gaza provinces, have led to significant supply shortages and increased prices for essential goods and fuel in various regions, including the north-western city of Tete.

Reports from shelters initially indicated food shortages, though the situation has since improved. Authorities are considering rescheduling the start of the 2026 academic year to allow schools to continue serving as accommodation for flood victims, particularly in the most affected provinces of Maputo and Gaza.

While some residents express a strong determination to return and rebuild their lives after the waters recede, others remain uncertain about the feasibility and safety of returning to previously flooded areas.