Flood in Morocco

Severe flash flooding struck Morocco’s Atlantic coastal city of Safi (Asfi) after intense rainfall lasting about one hour overwhelmed drainage systems. Streets became fast-moving torrents of muddy water, flooding homes and businesses, sweeping away cars, damaging infrastructure, and cutting off roads and transport links.

At least 37 people were killed, with many others injured, as search and rescue teams operated in affected neighborhoods. Schools were temporarily closed, and authorities issued weather warnings as more heavy rain and storms were forecast.

The flooding followed a prolonged drought, which hardened the ground and reduced water absorption, increasing the risk of sudden floods, and experts say climate change is making such extreme and unpredictable weather more severe.