What is the extent of the flooding in Mozambique?

Floods in Mozambique have killed over 150 people and affected an estimated 800,000 across southern and central provinces, with some areas experiencing severe urban inundation.

What are the conditions like for displaced people in Mozambique?

Displaced individuals in accommodation centers face inadequate food, poor sanitation, and a heightened risk of waterborne diseases, with children being a particular concern.

How is Mozambique addressing the impact of climate change-related disasters?

Mozambique, identified as highly vulnerable to climate change, is appealing for international funding for adaptation efforts, though challenges remain in responding to extreme events.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Mozambique Floods: Decades-Worst Devastation

Mozambique Floods: Decades-Worst Devastation

5 Feb

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Summary

Floods have killed over 150 people and affected 800,000.
Agricultural heartland devastated, losing crops and storage.
Displaced families struggle with inadequate aid and sanitation.

Mozambique Floods: Decades-Worst Devastation

Mozambique is grappling with severe floods, considered among the worst in decades, resulting in over 150 deaths and impacting approximately 800,000 people across southern and central provinces. Emilia Machel, displaced with her children, recounts fleeing their Chokwe home due to the rising Limpopo River, a site that has seen devastating floods in 2000, 2013, and now again.

The agricultural heartland has suffered immense damage, with vast farmlands and food storage barns destroyed. Major cities like Xai-Xai and Matola have experienced severe urban flooding, exacerbated by high population density and blocked waterways, forcing thousands into accommodation centers.

Despite improved early warning systems post-Cyclone Idai in 2019, critics argue response efforts are insufficient. Residents like Machel were reluctant to leave until their homes were submerged, highlighting difficulties in timely evacuations and the challenges faced by authorities in assisting everyone in need.