Floods Devastate Southern Africa, Heightening Risks from Crocodiles and Disease

Since the beginning of 2026, southern Africa has faced catastrophic flooding that has resulted in over 100 fatalities and displaced hundreds of thousands. The floods have primarily affected Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique, with Zimbabwe reporting more than 70 deaths, South Africa 30, and Mozambique 13, including three fatalities attributed to crocodile attacks. The floods have been exacerbated by extreme weather patterns linked to climate change, leading to a humanitarian crisis marked by food insecurity and health risks.

Floods push crocodiles into Mozambican towns as health concerns riseCrocodile warnings as floods devastate southern Africa

In Mozambique, the flooding has submerged vast areas, including urban centers like Xai-Xai, the capital of Gaza province. The Limpopo River, which flows from South Africa into Mozambique, has overflowed, pushing crocodiles into populated areas. Local authorities have issued warnings against approaching still waters, as crocodiles have been reported drifting into these regions. Henriques Bongece, the secretary of Maputo province, noted that the floods have washed crocodiles into urban areas, increasing the danger to residents.

Floods push crocodiles into Mozambican towns as health concerns riseCrocodile warnings as floods devastate southern Africa

The floods have also caused significant damage to infrastructure, destroying homes, roads, bridges, and health facilities. The World Health Organization has reported that at least 44 health facilities have been damaged, leaving tens of thousands without access to essential medical care. The humanitarian situation is dire, with nearly 400,000 people displaced and many living in temporary shelters lacking basic sanitation and health services.

Floods push crocodiles into Mozambican towns as health concerns rise

The agricultural sector has suffered severely, with approximately 60,000 hectares of farmland lost and over 58,000 livestock killed due to the floods. This loss threatens food security for millions, as small-scale farmers struggle to feed their families amidst rising hunger and disease risks. Aid workers have expressed concerns about the potential for cholera outbreaks in overcrowded camps, where basic infrastructure is lacking.

Floods push crocodiles into Mozambican towns as health concerns rise

In response to the crisis, the South African government has established a recovery fund for the Kruger National Park and is seeking donations from both national and international donors. However, delays in funding and reduced aid budgets from developed countries have hindered emergency response efforts. Gaspar Sitefane, the director of WaterAid Mozambique, highlighted that the funding pledged for relief efforts is smaller and slower to arrive compared to previous disasters.

Crocodile warnings as floods devastate southern Africa

Critics have pointed out that the international community's response has been inadequate, with many countries diverting aid budgets to defense rather than humanitarian assistance. This has raised concerns about the long-term recovery and support for affected populations in southern Africa.

Crocodile warnings as floods devastate southern Africa

• “We want to urge everyone not to approach still waters because crocodiles are drifting in these waters.” — Henriques Bongece, Secretary of Maputo Province

Floods push crocodiles into Mozambican towns as health concerns rise

• “The river levels are rising and are reaching urban areas or heavily populated areas,” — Paola Emerson, Head of the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Mozambique

Floods push crocodiles into Mozambican towns as health concerns rise

• “Most of these camps are not prepared to receive a lot of people and they don’t have basic infrastructure – good toilets, places to deposit garbage.” — Gaspar Sitefane, Director of WaterAid Mozambique

Crocodile warnings as floods devastate southern Africa

The ongoing floods in southern Africa underscore the urgent need for comprehensive humanitarian assistance and long-term strategies to address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities.

Floods push crocodiles into Mozambican towns as health concerns rise