Historic Floods Leave People Clinging to Treetops in Mozambique

Mon Jan 26 2026 06:07:11 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Mozambique faces its worst flooding in a generation, displacing tens of thousands and triggering international rescue efforts as communities struggle to survive rising waters.

Mozambique is experiencing unprecedented flooding, described by locals as the worst in a generation, following intense rainfall that has overwhelmed the Inkomati River. Thousands have been displaced, with rescue operations underway involving teams from Brazil, South Africa, and the UK. Many victims recount harrowing evacuations and the loss of their homes and livelihoods, while authorities warn of worsening conditions due to potential dam discharges from neighboring South Africa. As shelters fill, victims express concerns over the future and basic necessities like food.

Historic Floods Leave People Clinging to Treetops in Mozambique

Mozambique is experiencing unprecedented flooding, described by locals as the worst in a generation. Rising waters from the Inkomati River have led to dramatic rescues, with tens of thousands displaced in the southern African nation. As rescue operations unfold, involving teams from Brazil, South Africa, and the UK, survivors recount harrowing experiences and staggering losses.

Rescue efforts in Mozambique

Tomaz Antonio Mlau, a local mechanic, shared how he awoke to find his house inundated after the river burst its banks. We did not hesitate to board the rescue boat to come to safety, leaving behind all of our belongings except for a change of clothes, he said, now taking refuge in a local school that serves as an emergency shelter.

The situation is dire, with reports indicating that over 650,000 people have been affected by rising floodwaters since early January, leading to at least 12 deaths. Emergency shelters are overflowing as communities rally to support those in need, while food shortages add another layer of suffering to their plight.

The mayor of Marracuene, Shafee Sidat, cautioned that some people are still refusing to evacuate from high-risk areas and urged them to seek safety. As he surveyed the damage and the ongoing rescue efforts, there remains a collective concern about the potential for more rain from South Africa, which could exacerbate the already critical situation.

Residents of affected areas are left contemplating their futures, with many worried about returning to homes that may no longer exist. The road to recovery will be long and challenging as communities begin to grapple with the aftermath of one of Mozambique's most devastating natural disasters.