Morocco, a country already facing its seventh year of drought and record heat, has been hit by devastating flash floods that have left a trail of destruction in their wake. The coastal city of Safi, a bustling port city, has been particularly hard-hit, with at least 37 lives lost and extensive damage to infrastructure and homes.
The disaster unfolded on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when heavy rainfall inundated the city, transforming streets into raging rivers and sweeping away everything in its path. The intensity of the downpour, which lasted for just an hour, overwhelmed the city's drainage systems, leading to massive flooding in homes, shops, and roads. The impact was swift and catastrophic, with multiple vehicles and mounds of rubbish being swept through the city.
The aftermath of the torrential rains has left the city in a state of chaos, with rescue operations ongoing amidst severe weather challenges. The authorities have reported that at least 70 homes have been submerged, and businesses have been devastated. Roads have been blocked, further complicating the rescue efforts. The Interior Ministry has confirmed the high death toll, revealing that the flash floods have also injured 32 people, adding to the grim statistics.
Forecasters predict more rain in the coming days, which could exacerbate the situation and hinder the ongoing search and rescue missions. The city of Safi, which has long been a cultural and economic hub, is now grappling with the aftermath of this natural disaster. The government and local officials are working tirelessly to support the affected communities and provide relief to those who have lost their homes and loved ones.
As Morocco continues to face the challenges of climate change and increasing weather extremes, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for better disaster preparedness and infrastructure. The devastating impact on the coastal city of Safi underscores the vulnerability of coastal regions to extreme weather events, and the importance of investing in resilient infrastructure and early warning systems. The international community is urged to offer support to Morocco in its time of need, ensuring that the affected communities receive the help they need to rebuild and recover.
