At a Glance
- Flooding has killed more than 100 people across Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
- 700,000 residents affected, half of them children.
- 72,000 homes destroyed and $30 million needed for repairs.
- Why it matters: The disaster is the worst in the region since 2000 and threatens millions more.
The week-long deluge that began with heavy rain has turned Southern Africa into a humanitarian crisis. Flooding has already claimed more than 100 lives and left 700,000 people in need of assistance, including children. The situation is worsening as additional rain is expected and dams are at full capacity.
The Scale of the Disaster
The Associated Press announced on Jan. 16, 2026 that the death toll had surpassed 100 across three countries. Mozambique alone recorded 13 deaths, with three of those caused by crocodiles that have entered the floodwaters. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) reports that 72,000 homes have been destroyed.
| Country | Deaths | Homes Destroyed |
|---|---|---|
| Mozambique | 13 | – |
| South Africa | – | – |
| Zimbabwe | – | – |
The numbers are still rising. Officials warn that the toll could increase as more rain pours in.
Why Crocodiles Are a New Threat
Paola Emerson, head of the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Mozambique, explained that crocodiles “are in the Limpopo river” and can reach populated areas that are now submerged. Henriques Bongece, Maputo’s provincial secretary, cautioned residents not to approach still waters because crocodiles “drift in these waters.”
- Three deaths in Mozambique were directly linked to crocodiles.
- One incident involved a man “swallowed” by a crocodile in Moamba.
- Authorities are urging the public to stay away from stagnant floodwater.
Human Impact
More than 700,000 people have been affected, with half being children. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) highlights the urgency of providing shelter, food, and medical care.
- 72,000 homes destroyed.
- $30 million estimated repair cost.
- One missing councillor, Andile Mngwevu, was last seen in a flooded car.
The missing persons list includes a councillor from the Ekurhuleni municipality in South Africa, who was trapped in a car during a flood in the Gaza province.
Government and International Response
The IFRC’s Program and Operations Manager, Rachel Fowler, warned that “the situation could worsen” as more rain is expected and dams are already at full capacity. The United Nations has mobilized aid teams, while local governments have issued evacuation orders.
- IFRC: Over 72,000 homes destroyed.
- Al Jazeera: Estimated $30 million repair cost.
- UN: Coordinated humanitarian assistance.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan. 16, 2026 | Authorities announce more than 100 deaths. |
| Jan. 20, 2026 | Residents wade through floodwater near Maputo. |
| 2000 | Previous worst flood with an estimated 700 deaths in Mozambique. |
The current flooding is the worst in the region since that 2000 disaster.
Looking Ahead
The forecast calls for continued heavy rain, which could exacerbate the situation. Dams are already at full capacity, increasing the risk of downstream flooding. Authorities are urging residents to heed warnings and avoid still waters.
The humanitarian response is ongoing, but the scale of damage and loss of life underscores the need for sustained international aid.
Key Takeaways
- Flooding has killed over 100 people.
- Crocodiles are a new danger in submerged waters.
- 700,000 residents affected, with 72,000 homes destroyed.
- $30 million needed for repairs.
- The death toll is expected to rise with more rain.
The crisis in Southern Africa demands immediate attention and resources to prevent further loss of life and to rebuild communities devastated by the floods.
