Since mid-December 2025, Mozambique has endured catastrophic floods, particularly in the provinces of Gaza, Maputo, Sofala, and Zambezia. The issue has gotten worse as a result of heavy rains that are said to be the worst in decades, overwhelming river basins and forcing controlled dam releases. Rivers have burst, and infrastructure has collapsed as a result of climate change, which has increased the damage by delivering over a year’s worth of rainfall in just ten days.
Impact on Humanity
The floods have destroyed approximately 72,000 homes and damaged key infrastructure, including highways, bridges, schools, and healthcare institutions. Around 392,000 people are displaced, many taking refuge in temporary shelters, while 244,000 farmers lost crops and cattle, increasing food insecurity. At least 100 fatalities have been confirmed, and thousands of people stuck by rising waters are being assisted by continuous boat and helicopter rescue operations. An estimated 690,000 people are already impacted, and if the rains continue, that number is expected to increase to 1.1 million.
Government and International Response
The Mozambican government requested international assistance and issued a red alert. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is organising relief efforts, requesting $187 million to aid 600,000 people. Organisations such as the International Federation of Red Cross, the World Food Programme, and UNICEF are giving food, medical care, and evacuation support. While humanitarian organisations concentrate on safeguarding children, expectant mothers, and other vulnerable groups, neighbouring South Africa has sent helicopters for air rescues in difficult places.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite fast reactions, obstacles persist due to damaged transit lines, communication disruptions, and persistent rainfall. Authorities warn that the situation may deteriorate further if floods persist, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated aid and long-term infrastructure planning to minimise future disasters.
Summary
Severe floods in Mozambique have displaced over 690,000 people, destroyed homes and crops, and created a humanitarian emergency. Government and international agencies are providing aid, but challenges remain as waters continue to rise.
