Satellite detected water extents as of 5 January 2026 in Sofala Province, Mozambique

✦ DISCOVERED BY ORIONAIUnited Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT)WaterMozambique
Mozambique

About this dataset

**UNOSAT code: FL20251229MOZ, GDACS ID: 1103694** This map illustrates the flood extent derived from Sentinel-1 imagery acquired on 5 January 2026, using an automated machine-learning-based analysis. Within the analysed area of approximately 25,000 km², an estimated 870 km² of land appears to be affected by floodwaters, representing an increase of about 100 km² compared to 31 December 2025 within the same analysed area. Based on WorldPop spatial demographic data, approximately 7,300 people are exposed to or living in close proximity to the flooded areas. This is a preliminary analysis and has not yet been validated in the field. Please send ground feedback to the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT). Important note: Flood analysis from radar images may underestimate the presence of standing waters in built-up areas and densely vegetated areas due to the backscattering properties of the radar signal.

Documentation

UNOSAT datasets and maps are produced using a variety of methods. In general, analysts closely review satellite imagery, often comparing two or more images together, and determine notable changes between the images. For damage assessments, refugee or IDP assessments, and similar analyses, these changes are then manually documented in the vector data by the analyst. For flood extractions, landcover mapping and similar analyses, a variety of automated remote sensing techniques are used to extract the relevant information which is then reviewed and revised as necessary by the analyst. In all cases, resulting data is then loaded into a standardized UNOSAT geodatabase and exported asshapefiles for dissemination. This is a preliminary assessment and has not yet been validated in the field. It is important to consider the characteristics of the source imagery used in the analyses when interpreting results. For damage assessments it should be noted that only significant damage to the structural integrity of the buildings analyzed can be seen in imagery, while minor damage such as cracks or holes may not be visible at all. For flood extractions using radar data it is important to note that urban areas and highly vegetated areas may mask the flood signature and result in underestimation of flood waters. Users with specific questions or concerns should contact unosat@unitar.org to seek clarification.

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