MAPUTO, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Severe flooding triggered by intense rainfall and rising river levels has rendered several major roads impassable in southern Mozambique, including a critical stretch of the country's main north-south highway, authorities said on Monday, as the humanitarian impact continues to mount.
According to a government statement, the Xai-Xai-Chicumbane section of National Road No. 1 in Gaza Province is currently impassable due to the overflow of the Limpopo River. The disruption adds to a growing list of road closures that are isolating communities and hampering the movement of people and goods.
"The situation resulting from intense rains and the rise of river basins is critical," the statement said, warning that water levels may remain high for at least two weeks.
Government spokesperson Inocencio Impissa appealed to residents in flood-prone areas to comply with evacuation orders and safety guidance.
"Between Dec. 22, 2025, and Jan. 19, 2026, the country recorded 11 flood-related deaths. Since the start of the rainy season in October 2025, the death toll has risen to 106, caused by a range of hazards including lightning strikes, drownings, cholera outbreaks, electrocutions, wall collapses, falling trees, and fires," he said.
Overall, nearly 600,000 people have been affected across Gaza Province, Maputo Province and Maputo City. Gaza accounts for 330,390 of those affected, while 264,291 are in Maputo Province and the capital.
Meanwhile, authorities have established 60 temporary accommodation centres: 14 in Gaza Province hosting 38,164 people, 19 in Maputo City sheltering 4,011, and 27 in Maputo Province accommodating 13,347 displaced residents.
Search, rescue and relief operations are ongoing with support from national and international partners. The response currently includes 14 boats, six helicopters and four fixed-wing aircraft, but the government said additional assistance remains urgently needed.
"The Government of Mozambique continues to appeal for more support to be channelled through appropriate mechanisms to reinforce ongoing efforts," the statement said, calling for national solidarity and international cooperation as communities grapple with the worst impacts of the floods. ■
