( CNN ) -- Torrential rains sent rivers raging through towns in Mozambique , ripping up homes and killing at least 36 people over the past few days . Tens of thousands fleeing affected areas remain stranded without food and water as fears of a humanitarian crisis grow . `` Intense rains and flooding of the Limpopo River have affected over 100,000 people in Gaza Province alone , '' the United Nations said in a statement . At least 26 people died in that province , according to the world body . Evacuees waded through flowing muddy waters , a few prized possessions perched on their heads . Others scrambled to climb atop roofs to avoid drowning . `` In Chokwe , one of the hardest hit districts -- the normally vibrant streets now lie under water -- all business brought to a standstill and social services shut down , '' the United Nations said . Preliminary information indicates at least $ 15 million will be needed for the relief operation . The United Nations warned that the amount is expected to go up as assessment teams release more information . In 2000 , the southern African nation suffered devastating floods that killed at least 700 people and displaced millions . The floods more than a decade ago destroyed highways and bridges , and prompted fears that land mines left over from a civil war may have shifted .
Tens of thousands are stranded without food and water . U.N. : Preliminary report indicates $ 100 million needed for relief aid . In April , floods in the southern African nation killed 700 people .