‘We have to rebuild’: Mozambique flood victims persevere in face of loss

Heavy rains and overflowing rivers in Mozambique's southern and central provinces have caused devastating floods, impacting an estimated 800,000 people and resulting in over 150 deaths. The floods, considered some of the worst in decades, began in late December 2025 and continued into January 2026, primarily affecting areas along the Limpopo River. Many residents, like Emilia Machel, sought refuge in displacement sites like Chiaquelane, a settlement previously used during the 2000 and 2013 floods. While the rain has lessened, large areas remain flooded, isolating communities and causing significant infrastructure damage, with the government estimating losses in the hundreds of millions of dollars. The Mozambique weather agency warns that moderate rain is set to continue in the northern provinces.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced by deadly flooding in Mozambique, as reported on January 30, 2026. Aid workers are struggling to reach those in isolated areas. Survivors are described as exhausted, with one pregnant woman reporting she was forced to give birth during the crisis. The flooding has caused widespread displacement and created urgent humanitarian needs across the affected regions of Mozambique. The cause of the flooding was not specified in the article.

Devastating floods in Southern Africa have displaced hundreds of thousands of people across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique as of late January 2026. Over 100 deaths have been confirmed, and the rainy season is expected to continue through February. Mozambique is the hardest-hit country, experiencing significant infrastructure damage that has disrupted essential services and aid delivery. Relief organizations report shortages of shelter, water, sanitation, food, and health services in several Mozambican provinces. UNICEF warns of increased risks of waterborne diseases and malaria, particularly for malnourished children, due to the lack of clean water and sanitation.