Morocco to Face New Period of Stormy Weather as Flood Risk Rises in the Northwest

Rabat – After a relatively calm weekend, Morocco is set to experience a new phase of unstable weather starting Monday, with heavy rainfall and strong winds expected to hit the northwest, where precipitation could exceed seasonal averages.

According to the latest forecasts from the General Directorate of Meteorology, Saturday, February 1, and Sunday, February 2, will see a temporary lull in weather activity, with generally stable conditions across the country. Only isolated, light showers are expected in the far northwest, particularly in areas near the Atlantic coast.

Stormy Conditions Expected from Monday

The start of the week, beginning Monday, February 3, will bring a significant deterioration in weather, especially along the northwest coast, due to the approach of a deep Atlantic low-pressure system. The system is expected to bring:

• Heavy rainfall, mainly affecting northern regions,

• Moderate to locally strong wind gusts, particularly near the approaching weather front,

• Snowfall over medium and high-altitude mountainous areas.

Rainfall May Exceed Seasonal Averages

Preliminary data indicate that next week will be particularly wet, with the northwest most affected. The regions of Tangier, the Loukkos basin, Gharb, and western Rif are expected to record significant rainfall, well above the usual climatological averages for February.

Authorities and residents in affected areas are advised to stay vigilant, especially in low-lying zones and mountainous regions prone to flooding and strong winds.

The Loukkos River basin, in particular, has already experienced severe flooding. In Ksar El Kebir, heavy rainfall caused the river to overflow, inundating streets and neighborhoods. Residents and authorities have mobilized to evacuate affected households, and citizens have assisted in rescuing people and animals stranded by rising waters. Videos shared on social media show floodwaters entering homes and shops, highlighting the human and material impact of the floods.

Several dams in the region are nearing full capacity, forcing authorities to manage water releases carefully to prevent further flooding downstream. The high levels of these reservoirs assert the severity of the rainfall and the urgent need for caution in flood-prone areas.