Rising Water Levels in Safi Trigger Concern Among Residents

Rabat – Safi experienced heavy rainfall in the early hours of Saturday, causing water levels to rise in several areas, particularly at Oued Bab Chaaba, the site of the deadly floods on December 14. 

Videos shared on social media showed the increasing water levels, creating panic and anxiety among residents of the old medina.

Local authorities confirmed that the situation remained under control, thanks in part to recent efforts to clean and prepare the course of Oued Bab Chaaba. These measures helped channel rainwater directly toward the sea, preventing widespread flooding in the historic city center as occurred in previous incidents.

Yet torrents of water mixed with mud and debris inundated Sidi Bou Dahab Square, disrupting traffic and daily movement. Specialized teams intervened promptly to remove mud and restore accessibility.

Since the catastrophic floods on December 14, which claimed at least 37 lives and caused extensive damage to infrastructure, roads, and transportation networks, Safi has been under heightened vigilance. Local and regional authorities have mobilized all available resources to monitor waterways, prevent risks, and coordinate rapid interventions.

Committees involving local authorities, civil protection services, and agencies in charge of water and infrastructure are closely tracking the situation, ensuring timely detection of hazards and efficient response to protect residents.

Authorities continue to work closely with municipal and central services to prevent any further overflow and mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall, aiming to protect citizens while avoiding a repeat of the recent tragedy.