Mozambique is facing one of its most destructive flood emergencies in years. Nearly 800,000 people are affected across the southern and central provinces, especially Gaza, Maputo, and Sofala. Roads, bridges, and health facilities have been severely damaged, cutting off communities and disrupting supply chains. A total of 82,634 houses have been destroyed or damaged, with 123 deaths reported and 101 people injured.
Parts of Maputo were submerged up to rooftop level, and the capital was temporarily cut off from the rest of the country due to flooding on a major highway. The Senteeko Dam in Mpumalanga, South Africa, is facing a critical risk of failure following structural damage, which could cause further destruction.
The flooding has created dangerous conditions for waterborne diseases and malnutrition, particularly among children. Floodwaters have also pushed crocodiles into urban areas, increasing risks for residents.
Large parts of the affected regions remain unreachable by road, and aid groups report that air and maritime support is urgently needed. The UK has deployed specialist search and rescue teams, including firefighters from West Midlands and Cheshire, to support operations in Maputo Province and Xai-Xai. Aid agencies, including the UN, IFRC, and UNICEF, are coordinating relief efforts and warning of escalating humanitarian needs.
