Heavy Snowfall and Rainfall Expected to Impact Multiple Provinces in Morocco
Morocco’s weather office forecasts significant snowfall and rainfall for various provinces this week, including led to cancelation of the Eid Al Adha ritual due to livestock shortages. Heavy precipitation, along with thunderstorms and hail, is expected, especially affecting areas hit by a recent earthquake, which has left many families in fragile living conditions.
The Moroccan weather office has issued a new weather alert indicating that snowfall will affect various provinces this week, along with substantial rainfall anticipated in multiple regions. Snowfall is predicted to reach between 5 and 30 centimeters at elevations exceeding 1,700 meters, with heavy rainfall expected to accumulate between 20 and 30 millimeters. Additionally, thunderstorms and hail are forecasted for certain areas as part of this weather phenomenon.
Specifically, provinces including Azilal, Beni Mellal, Midelt, Tinghir, Ouarzazate, and Al Haouz are expected to experience snowfall ranging from 15 to 30 centimeters between Monday at noon and Tuesday at 7 a.m. Snow accumulation of 5 to 10 centimeters is anticipated in Ifrane, Boulemane, Taroudant, and Chichaoua during the same timeframe.
The heavy rainfall, alongside thunderstorms and hail, is projected for Figuig, Errachidia, Midelt, and Tinghir starting Tuesday at 12 a.m. Morocco has been dealing with worries regarding limited rainfall and dwindling water reserves in the nation’s dams. Recently, Minister of Agriculture Ahmed El Bouari stated that the dam reservoir capacity is at a mere 4.6 billion cubic meters, translating to a filling rate of only 28 percent.
As a result of this concerning situation, the Moroccan government decided to cancel the Eid Al Adha sacrifice ritual due to a significant decline in livestock numbers. The weather office has issued additional alerts predicting further winter conditions, including snowfall between 5 and 15 centimeters affecting provinces such as Al Haouz, Chichaoua, Boulemane, and Taroudant.
It is worth noting that several areas had already endured a devastating earthquake in 2023, particularly in the Al Haouz region, which tragically resulted in the loss of approximately 3,000 lives. Many families remain displaced and currently reside in tents while awaiting the reconstruction of their homes. Recent video footage has revealed heavy snowfall covering these tents, exacerbating the urgency for the government to respond effectively and provide support to the affected populations.
In summary, Morocco is bracing for significant snowfall and rainfall across several provinces this week, raising concerns about the country’s water reserves and agricultural sustainability. Following a recent earthquake, many families are already vulnerable and require immediate assistance, making this weather situation particularly urgent. The Moroccan government must act decisively to mitigate the impacts of these weather events on its citizens.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
