Severe Heatwave Forecasted Across Morocco
A recent update from the General Directorate of Meteorology has confirmed the persistence of a significant heatwave affecting various regions of Morocco, with temperatures soaring between 36°C and 41°C. This warning, classified as an "orange alert," is in effect from Thursday until Saturday, covering multiple provinces including Wazan, Meknes, Fes, Moulay Yacoub, Taounate, Sidi Kacem, Khmissat, Sidi Slimane, and Khouribga, as well as regions such as Fkih Ben Salah, Khenifra, Settat, Youssoufia, Qalaat Sraghna, Marrakesh, Rahamna, Beni Mellal, Chichaoua, Taroudant, Kenitra, Larache, Benslimane, Nouaceur, Berrechid, Guelmim, and Sidi Ben Nour.
Furthermore, certain areas are expected to experience even more extreme temperatures ranging from 39°C to 42°C starting Saturday through Monday, May 25. This includes the provinces of Aousserd, Wadi Eddahab, Boujdour, Assa-Zag, Smara, and Tata.
Weather Conditions and Impact
In addition to the heatwave, the Moroccan meteorological service has issued a warning regarding another weather phenomenon affecting the country, characterized by hot weather also under an "orange alert" on Thursday and Friday. During this period, temperatures are expected to range from 37°C to 42°C in provinces such as Agadir-Ida Ou Tanane, Essaouira, Safi, Chtouka-Ait Baha, Inzgan-Ait Melloul, and Tiznit. Other areas including Casablanca, Mediouna, Mohammedia, Rabat, Salé, Skhirat-Témara, El Jadida, and Sidi Ifni are projected to see temperatures between 34°C and 38°C.
This remarkable increase in temperature is attributed to the influence of a thermal low pressure system originating from the Sahara, which is bringing hot and dry air into southern and central Morocco, creating hot weather across many regions, particularly in the northern internal plains, Souss, southeastern areas, the Moulouya Valley, and the far southern regions of the kingdom. Official reports suggest that temperatures may rise significantly, exceeding the normal seasonal averages by 3°C to 8°C, especially in the interior and southern regions before a gradual decrease is anticipated starting Monday, alongside a shift in weather conditions.
As reported by hespress.com.
