Story by Gay Matambo
HEAVY rains across Southern Africa have caused widespread flooding in Mozambique, with more than 100 people feared dead and thousands displaced, authorities report.
The southern and central regions of the country are facing a deepening humanitarian crisis following weeks of torrential rains, which have overwhelmed rivers and drainage systems. The Mozambican government has declared a National Red Alert, the highest level of emergency, warning that the current flooding could surpass the devastation experienced during the 2000 floods.
Nearly 600 000 people have been affected nationwide, with over 50 000 forced into temporary shelters, including schools and churches. Gaza Province is reportedly the epicentre of the disaster, with roughly 40 % of the province reportedly submerged.
Videos widely circulated on social media platforms show the Limpopo River having burst its banks, flooding the town of Chókwè and surrounding districts.
Maputo, Inhambane, Sofala and Zambézia provinces are also reportedly experiencing critical conditions.
A Mozambique local news agency also reported that 3 000 kilometres of roads have been damaged, while more than 70 000 hectares of crops, primarily rice and corn, have been lost, posing a major threat to food security this year.
As the rains continue to pour just across this border, it is reported that rescue teams, volunteers and the Mozambican government are working around the clock to rescue trapped survivors and transport them to safer ground.
