Severe Flooding in Tunisia Claims Lives Amid Record Rainfall

On January 20, 2026, Tunisia experienced catastrophic flooding following the heaviest rainfall recorded in over 70 years. At least four fatalities have been confirmed, all occurring in Moknine, located in the Monastir governorate. The extreme weather has led to widespread disruption across multiple governorates, with emergency services struggling to respond effectively to the scale of the disaster.

Floods kill four in Tunisia after heaviest rain in decades

The torrential rains have inundated streets, submerged vehicles, and severely disrupted daily life. Schools were closed in the capital Tunis and the towns of Nabeul, Sousse, and Beja. Court sessions were suspended, and public and private transport faced significant interruptions. Civil defence teams reported that several areas, particularly low-lying neighborhoods, were cut off due to rising waters. Videos circulating on social media depicted fast-moving floods sweeping debris through urban areas, with seawater inundating coastal neighborhoods like Menzel Temime.

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Meteorological officials have noted that the rainfall levels in some regions have not been matched since 1950. Abderazak Rahal, head of forecasting at the National Institute of Meteorology (INM), stated that exceptional amounts of rainfall were recorded, particularly in Monastir, Nabeul, and greater Tunis. The tourist village of Sidi Bou Said received 206 millimeters (8.1 inches) of rain since the evening prior to the flooding.

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In response to the crisis, President Kais Saied ordered the mobilization of the army to assist in rescue and relief operations. This decision was made following appeals from citizens affected by the flooding. The army's involvement is aimed at navigating difficult terrain and providing reassurance to affected communities. Civil defence spokesperson Khalil Mechri confirmed that two individuals were swept away by floodwaters, while an elderly woman drowned in her home.

Army mobilised as heavy rains trigger deadly floods across Tunisia

Experts have pointed out that Tunisia's infrastructure is ill-equipped to handle such extreme weather events. The country has been grappling with a seven-year drought, exacerbated by climate change, which has led to a decline in water reserves and increased vulnerability to flooding. Critics argue that aging and poorly maintained drainage systems, along with rapid urban expansion and waste clogging stormwater networks, have contributed to the severity of the flooding.

Army mobilised as heavy rains trigger deadly floods across Tunisia

While most sources report four fatalities, some reports indicate that the death toll may vary. Khalil Mechri confirmed four deaths, while other sources initially reported three. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing challenges in accurately assessing the situation amid the chaos of the flooding.

Floods kill four in Tunisia after heaviest rain in decades

• “We have recorded exceptional amounts of rainfall for the month of January,” — Abderazak Rahal, Head of Forecasting, National Institute of Meteorology

Al Jazeera (website)

• “Officials emphasised that the army’s presence is crucial for navigating difficult terrain and extreme weather, while also providing reassurance to affected communities and coordinating operations alongside the civil defence.” — Anonymous Defence Ministry Source

Army mobilised as heavy rains trigger deadly floods across Tunisia

The flooding in Tunisia underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness as the country faces the dual challenges of climate change and extreme weather events.

Army mobilised as heavy rains trigger deadly floods across Tunisia