Catastrophic Flooding in Mozambique Rescues Thousands Amid Crisis

Thu Jan 29 2026 18:59:13 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the wake of unprecedented flooding in Mozambique, rescue operations are ongoing as tens of thousands seek safety. The situation continues to escalate, prompting fears of further disasters as more rain is forecasted.

Mozambique is enduring the worst flooding in a generation, affecting over 650,000 people and leading to numerous rescues. International aid teams are assisting in rescue operations as locals cling to life in treetops and rooftops. Mixed emotions arise from the victims as they seek safety while losing everything to the floodwaters, with some reluctant to leave their homes despite the danger.

Tens of thousands of people in Mozambique are being rescued as rising waters continue to devastate the southern African nation - the worst flooding in a generation.

Teams from Brazil, South Africa, and the UK have been helping with life-saving rescue operations.

For me, this is the first time I have experienced a calamity of this magnitude. Elders say a similar disaster took place in the 1990s, 24-year-old mechanic Tomaz Antonio Mlau says.

Mlau and his family woke up to find their house inundated after the Inkomati River burst its banks.

When a rescue boat came a few hours afterwards, we did not hesitate to board it and come to safety in Marracuene town, he said, adding they had to abandon all their belongings and only managed to bring a change of clothes.

The ongoing flooding crisis has affected more than 650,000 people and led to at least 12 deaths, presenting a daunting challenge for local and international authorities as they work to ensure safety and provide assistance.

As the water continues to rise, locals express a mix of gratitude for rescue efforts and despair for the homes and livelihoods lost. The mayor of Marracuene municipality, Shafee Sidat, noted that some residents are still resisting evacuation, clinging to trees and rooftops as the waters threaten their safety.

We are happy to be here on higher ground. However, we are very worried that all our belongings were left behind, said 67-year-old Francisco Fernando Chivindzi.

With heavy rains continuing in neighboring South Africa, authorities warn that the situation may worsen, prompting a reevaluation of safety protocols and shelter capacities in the affected areas.