Breaking News: Severe Flooding in Mozambique Affects Thousands
Maputo, Mozambique – On January 17, Emilia Machel, 30, and her three children evacuated to the Chiaquelane site for displaced people as floods engulfed their hometown of Chokwe. The Limpopo River overflowed after heavy rains from December to mid-January, leading to one of the worst flooding events in decades.
Authorities report over 150 fatalities and approximately 800,000 people affected across southern and central Mozambique. Although rainfall has decreased, large areas remain submerged. Humanitarian workers describe vast stretches of water covering homes and farmland.
Machel, who previously sought refuge in Chiaquelane during floods in 2000 and 2013, returned for safety. She noted that many families in her neighborhood are now displaced. In Xai-Xai, businesswoman Paula Fonseca reported significant challenges in assessing damages, as her restaurant remains underwater.
The government has acknowledged substantial losses in infrastructure and continues to assist affected populations. Rescue teams are active in flooded areas, but challenges persist due to limited resources. UN agencies are concerned about the health risks posed to displaced children.
Efforts to provide food and sanitation at accommodation centers are ongoing, as communities come together to support each other. The government has called for international assistance to address the crisis.
