Rabat – Morocco’s General Directorate of Meteorology has issued an orange-level weather alert for Monday, warning of strong thunderstorms and high temperatures across several parts of the country.
According to the weather alert, locally heavy thunderstorms with possible hail are expected in several provinces, including Guercif, Taourirt, Jerada, Figuig, Ifrane, Sefrou, Boulemane, Khenifra, and Midelt. Rainfall levels are forecast to range between 25 and 35 millimeters, with the stormy conditions expected from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
At the same time, hot weather is expected in many provinces, with temperatures ranging between 35°C and 39°C. The high temperatures will affect areas such as Sale, Khemisset, Skhirate-Temara, Kenitra, Nouaceur, Benslimane, Berrechid, El Jadida, Casablanca, Mediouna, and Mohammedia.
It will also affect Sidi Bennour, Safi, Essaouira, Chtouka Ait Baha, Tiznit, Sidi Ifni, Guelmim, Assa-Zag, Tan-Tan, and Es-Smara.
The change in weather comes after an unusual winter season in Morocco, with heavy rainfall across the country. After seven consecutive years of drought, the recent rains brought much-needed relief, as they significantly improved water reserves and helped refill dams.
Morocco’s Minister of Water and Equipment, Nizar Baraka, announced earlier this year that the recent rainfall officially ended seven consecutive years of drought.
However, the intense rainfall also caused flooding in several regions, especially in northern Morocco, leading to damage in some areas and claiming the lives of several people. The city of Ksar El Kebir was the most affected.
Despite these challenges, the rainfall has been largely beneficial, particularly for the agricultural sector, raising hopes for a better farming season this year.