Floods in southern Africa leave widespread damage and displacement

Torrential rains in Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe have killed more than 100 people and displaced hundreds of thousands, officials reported; rescue and evacuation operations are continuing.

Torrential rains and severe flooding have affected Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe since late last year, officials reported. The floods have killed more than 100 people across the three countries and destroyed thousands of homes. Large areas of Mozambique, including parts of Gaza province, and sections of South Africa have been submerged or cut off. Rescue and evacuation operations are ongoing and authorities have declared a national disaster in South Africa. Key facts: - Officials reported more than 100 deaths across Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe. - Mozambique authorities said over 300,000 people have been displaced in Gaza province and more than half a million people have been affected nationwide. - The South African Air Force has conducted helicopter rescues and reported nearly 500 people rescued in Mozambique during cross-border assistance. - Kruger National Park sustained tens of millions of dollars in damage and parts of the park are cut off, and a special fund has been established for rebuilding. Summary: The floods have caused loss of life, widespread destruction of homes and damage to infrastructure and wildlife areas. Rescue and evacuation efforts are continuing and some safety measures, such as engineers working on a pressured dam, have been reported; longer-term recovery timelines are undetermined at this time.