John Adoyi, PBA Journalism Mentee
At least 21 people were killed and more than 30 injured after sudden flash floods swept through the coastal province of Safi on Sunday, authorities
said, as rescue operations continue and weather services warn of more heavy rainfall across the country.
Moroccan civil protection officials said exceptionally heavy rains that fell over roughly one hour late Sunday triggered rapid flooding that inundated
homes, shops and streets in Safi, about 330 kilometres south of the capital Rabat.
The floods, caused by intense thunderstorms, left 21 people dead, most of them in urban neighbourhoods, and injured 32 others. Authorities said the majority
of the injured have since been discharged from hospital, although some remain under medical care.
Local responders were searching for additional casualties and assisting residents amid widespread damage, including multiple roads rendered impassable by floodwaters and debris.
Floodwaters swept away vehicles and inundated dozens of buildings, particularly in parts of the old town. Initial field assessments indicate that hundreds of homes and businesses may have sustained serious water damage.
Moroccan meteorological services have forecast further heavy rains in several regions across the kingdom in the coming days, raising concerns about additional flooding.
Officials have mobilised emergency teams, including civil protection units, medical staff and local authorities, to support ongoing rescue and relief efforts, clear blocked roads and assist displaced residents.
The flooding comes as Morocco experiences volatile weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and snowfall in the Atlas Mountains, following a prolonged
drought that depleted key reservoirs in recent years.
Local civic groups and community organisations have expressed condolences to affected families as Safi begins recovery efforts.
