In brief
Flash floods in Morocco's coastal Safi region have resulted in at least 37 confirmed deaths as cars and debris flooded the streets. Many residents are receiving medical treatment for injuries, and numerous homes have been submerged. Local authorities are engaged in ongoing rescue operations amid warnings of continuing extreme weather due to the climate crisis.
Flash floods have killed at least 37 people in Morocco's coastal Safi region, according to state-owned television.
Cars and mounds of rubbish were seen sweeping through the main port city of Safi after torrential rain hit on Sunday.
Dozens of people have been receiving treatment in hospital for their injuries, say local authorities, and at least 70 homes have been inundated in the old city centre.
Local reports say access to and from the city is blocked on certain roads because of damage and debris.
Residents on Sunday described it as a dark day, with one telling the AFP news agency: I've lost all my clothes. Only my neighbour gave me some to cover myself. I have nothing left. I've lost everything. Another survivor expressed a desire for government aid to arrive swiftly.
Moroccan authorities confirm that search and rescue missions are still underway.
Experts attribute a portion of this severe weather fluctuation to the climate crisis, which has led to a prolonged drought of seven consecutive years, depleting water reservoirs. Last year was officially recorded as the hottest ever.
Weather services predict that heavy downpours will continue into Tuesday, potentially accompanied by snowfall across the Atlas mountains.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath, recovery efforts are essential in the search for those still missing and in providing assistance to those severely affected.
