Thousands displaced as Mozambique floods submerge towns

Catastrophic floods in Mozambique have displaced thousands of people, with many forced to take refuge on rooftops as rising waters sweep through towns and villages. Aid agencies report that over 620,000 residents have been affected, with more than 72,000 homes destroyed and vital infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and health facilities, severely damaged. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with Red Cross volunteers using small boats and South African air force helicopters assisting stranded residents.

Officials in Maputo warn that continued heavy rainfall and full-capacity dams could worsen the situation. Survivors are being provided with temporary shelters, food, and medical care, while aerial surveys are assessing the extent of the devastation. Authorities have yet to release figures on casualties, as emergency teams focus on evacuation and relief operations in southern provinces, including Gaza and Maputo.

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The floods have also affected parts of South Africa, including Kruger National Park, where rivers overflowed and 15 tourist camps remain closed. Officials estimate that repairing the park’s damaged roads and bridges could take up to five years and cost more than 500 million rand.