Morocco Opens Investigation After Deadly Floods in Safi

Rabat – The Public Prosecutor at the Court of Appeal in Safi announced on Monday the opening of an investigation following the deadly flash floods that hit Safi Province on Sunday evening, killing 37 people.

According to the prosecutor, the floods were caused by exceptional thunderstorms that led to sudden and powerful flash floods. The public prosecutor ordered the judicial police to carry out an investigation to determine the real causes of this tragic incident and to clarify its circumstances.

Many Moroccans questioned whether weather warnings were issued early enough, while others criticized the city’s infrastructure, saying it may not be prepared to handle such extreme weather. 

Local authorities in Safi Province confirmed that, as of Monday morning, the number of victims rose to 37 deaths. Fourteen people were also injured and are currently receiving medical treatment at Mohammed V Hospital in Safi. Two of the injured are in intensive care.

Meanwhile, dozens of others who received medical care were discharged.

Authorities said that rescue and search operations are still ongoing. Public authorities, civil protection services, security forces, and other intervening teams continue field searches, rescue efforts, and assistance to affected residents.

Local authorities urged locals to raise the level of vigilance and to take maximum precautions. They called on citizens to respect safety measures, especially as the country continues to experience severe and unstable weather conditions, in order to protect lives and property and reduce possible risks.

But Moroccans online pointed to serious problems in Safi’s infrastructure. They argued that drainage systems appear to be insufficient or poorly maintained, asking how such systems failed to channel the floods water away. 

Videos shared on social media showed powerful floodwaters dragging people along the streets, rising over knee level, submerging cars, and causing significant damage to buildings, with walls collapsing and being swept away by the strong currents.