Torrential Rains and Floods Strike Southern Morocco
Severe Weather Causes Tragic Losses
In a devastating turn of events, torrential rains have unleashed severe floods across southern Morocco, leading to the tragic loss of at least 11 lives. Additionally, nine people are still reported missing. The worst-affected provinces include Tata, Tiznit, and Errachidia, where the floods have wreaked havoc on communities.
Widespread Damage and Disruptions
The impact of these floods has been catastrophic. Authorities report that 40 homes have been destroyed, and over 90 roads have been damaged. The floods have also disrupted essential services, leaving villages without electricity, clean water, and phone connectivity.
An Unprecedented Climate Event
Interior Ministry spokesperson Rachid Khalfi described the floods as the result of an “exceptional” climate phenomenon. He explained that the rainfall over the past two days has equaled the total annual precipitation typically received by these regions. This intense weather event has impacted 17 prefectures and provinces across the kingdom.
Locations Hit Hard
Among the hardest-hit areas, Tata, located 740 kilometers south of Rabat, reported seven fatalities. Errachidia, nearly 500 kilometers east of Marrakesh, saw two deaths. Khalfi also mentioned that one of the victims was a foreign national, though no further details have been provided.
Extreme Rainfall
The Moroccan weather service has noted that the volume of rain in regions like Ouarzazate and Tagounite has been extraordinary. Ouarzazate received 47 millimeters of rain in just three hours, while Tagounite, near the Algerian border, experienced a staggering 170 millimeters. Such intense rainfall is rare for the region, which has not seen such conditions in about a decade.
The Drought Connection
These severe rains come as a significant contrast to the region’s recent history of drought. Southern Morocco has suffered from six consecutive years of dry conditions, leading to critically low water levels in dams, which are now less than 28% of their capacity.
Regional Impact Beyond Morocco
The flooding crisis has also extended to Algeria, where civil defense officials reported one death and ongoing searches for missing persons. Efforts are underway to rescue families trapped by floodwaters, and the situation remains dire.
A Call for Support and Recovery
As southern Morocco and neighboring regions grapple with the aftermath of this rare weather event, the focus now shifts to recovery and support for affected communities. The scale of destruction highlights the urgent need for assistance and long-term solutions to mitigate the impacts of such extreme weather.