In brief
Morocco's coastal city of Safi has been devastated by flash floods resulting from torrential rains, claiming at least 37 lives and injuring dozens. Local residents are expressing their agony, as many have lost everything. The climate crisis is believed to contribute to the extreme weather, with search and rescue operations ongoing as authorities respond to the disaster.
Flash floods have killed at least 37 people in Morocco's coastal Safi region, according to state-owned television.
Cars and mounds of rubbish were seen sweeping through the main port city of Safi after torrential rain hit on Sunday.
Dozens of people have been receiving treatment in hospital for their injuries, say local authorities, and at least 70 homes have been inundated in the old city centre.
Local reports state that access to and from the city is blocked on certain roads due to damage and debris.
Residents described it as a dark day. One stated, I've lost all my clothes. Only my neighbour gave me some to cover myself. I have nothing left. I've lost everything. Another survivor expressed a desire to see government trucks mobilized to pump out the water.
Moroccan authorities have stated that search and rescue missions are ongoing. Experts emphasize that the climate crisis plays a role in the extreme weather fluctuations experienced in North Africa. The country has suffered seven consecutive years of drought, which has depleted reservoirs.
The latest sudden downpour is projected to continue into Tuesday, with snowfall expected across the Atlas Mountains, according to Morocco's weather service.
