In Mozambique, weeks of relentless rain have turned rivers into barriers, swept roads away and submerged entire towns in what officials describe as one of the harshest weather emergencies in recent memory. Torrential downpours as part of a broader pattern of extreme weather linked to climate change have left over 620,000 people affected, tens of thousands of homes in ruins and vital infrastructure shattered across the southern African nation.
In the hardest-hit regions, floodwaters forced families from their homes, pushing them onto rooftops and into shelters erected by relief agencies. Mozambique’s low-lying provinces, particularly Gaza and Maputo, now resemble watery landscapes, with cars and buildings barely peeking above the rising tides. “Our home is now completely submerged … We left behind neighbours who are now telling us they are sheltering on rooftops as the water continues to rise,” said Celeste Maria, a 25-year-old hospital worker who fled with her family after early warnings were issued.
Emergency crews, volunteers and even military units are deploying small boats and helicopters to reach isolated communities, offering food, medical care and temporary refuge. But rescuers warn the situation is still evolving: dams are full, and more rain is forecast, meaning the waters could rise further in the days ahead.
The scale of the destruction including thousands of destroyed or damaged bridges, clinics and roads has compounded the challenge of getting aid to those who need it most. With Mozambique already facing economic strain, the floods threaten long-term consequences for livelihoods, food security and regional stability.
