Severe Heatwave Expected Across Morocco
The General Directorate of Meteorology has issued a severe heatwave warning, anticipating high temperatures starting tomorrow, Wednesday, and continuing through Friday across various regions of Morocco. According to the meteorological alert, categorized as "orange" level, temperatures are expected to soar between 37 and 42 degrees Celsius in several provinces including Wazan, Meknes, Fez, Moulay Yacoub, Taounate, Sidi Kacem, Khmissat, Sidi Slimane, Khouribga, Fkih Ben Saleh, Khenifra, Settat, Youssoufia, Qalaat Saraghna, Marrakech, Rhamna, Beni Mellal, Chichaoua, and Taroudant.
Furthermore, it is anticipated that the heat will intensify on Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures remaining within the 37 to 42-degree range in provinces such as Agadir Ida Ou Tanane, Kenitra, Larache, Ben Slimane, Nouacer, Berrechid, Essaouira, Safi, Sidi Ben Nour, Chtouka Ait Baha, Guelmim, and Inzkan Ait Melloul, alongside temperatures ranging between 34 and 38 degrees in Casablanca, Mediouna, Mohammedia, Rabat, Sale, Temara, and surrounding areas.
Impact of the Heatwave and Safety Precautions
This anticipated rise in temperature marks a significant shift from the previous period characterized by lower temperatures and snowfall in the High Atlas mountains. The intensification of heat across Morocco is attributed to the influence of a desert thermal low, which brings hot, dry air masses from the Sahara Desert towards the central and southern regions of the country, thereby gradually escalating the temperatures in the coming days.
The peak of this heatwave is expected on Thursday and Friday, with temperatures potentially exceeding seasonal averages by a margin of 3 to 8 degrees Celsius, particularly in the interior and southern regions. Forecasts suggest that maximum temperatures may range from 39 to 42 degrees in the internal areas of Gharb, Loukos, and Chaouia, as well as the southern provinces. Coastal areas are expected to see temperatures between 33 and 38 degrees. The Directorate urges citizens to exercise caution and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated and seeking shade, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
As reported by kech24.com.