Beijing: At least 37 people were killed in flash floods that ravaged Morocco's western city of Safi, authorities announced on Monday. In addition to the fatalities, the disaster left 20 people injured, necessitating their admission to the government-run Mohammed V Hospital in Safi for medical attention. While six of the injured have since been discharged, 14 remain hospitalized, with two individuals in intensive care units.

According to Anadolu Agency, ongoing search and rescue operations are in place as authorities work to secure affected areas and provide necessary support to residents. An emergency meeting was convened to assess the damage and devise urgent measures to mitigate the floods' impact.

The Education Ministry has ordered the suspension of schools in Safi and its surrounding areas due to the adverse weather conditions. Meanwhile, Morocco's Public Prosecution has initiated an investigation to determine the underlying causes of the flooding.

On Sunday, Morocco's state news agency, referencing local officials, reported that the flash floods were triggered by exceptionally heavy rainfall within a short timeframe-approximately an hour-which unleashed powerful floodwaters that inundated homes and businesses throughout the city. The flooding was preceded by intense thunderstorm activity.