Heavy Thunderstorms and Snowfall Forecasted for Multiple Moroccan Provinces

Morocco is experiencing a weather alert for heavy thunderstorms and snowfall, bringing between 30-50mm of rain and 5-15cm of snow in various provinces. This weather is anticipated to provide relief after six seasons of severe drought, but the water reserve situation remains critical at only 28% capacity. The government has responded with significant measures, including the cancellation of the Eid Al Adha sacrifice.

A recent weather alert indicates that heavy thunderstorms and snowfall are expected to affect several provinces in Morocco today. The weather office has warned of thunderstorms producing between 30 and 50 millimeters of rain, along with hail, commencing this morning and lasting until 4 p.m. in the provinces of Fez, Moulay Yacoub, and Taounate.

Furthermore, similar weather conditions are anticipated in the provinces of Chefchaouen, Al Hoceima, Oujda-Angad, Taourirt, Guercif, Berkane, Driouch, Nador, Jerada, and Boulemane, beginning from 1 p.m. and continuing until 7 p.m. Additionally, snowfall measuring 5 to 15 centimeters is expected at elevations exceeding 1,600 meters, starting at 9 a.m. and lasting until 6 p.m. in the areas of Al Haouz, Azilal, Midelt, Tinghir, Beni Mellal, Ouarzazate, Taroudant, Ifrane, and Boulemane.

These rain alerts come as a relief to Morocco, which has been grappling with severe drought for six consecutive seasons. Currently, the nation’s water reserves in dams are critically low, only amounting to 4.6 billion cubic meters, representing a filling rate of merely 28%. This water scarcity significantly impacts both drinking water availability and the agricultural sector.

In response to the dire situation, the Moroccan government has implemented notable measures, including the cancellation of the Eid Al Adha sacrifice ritual as announced by King Mohammed VI last week, highlighting concerns over the country’s water crisis. In recent years, Morocco has also resorted to importing essential commodities, such as red meat and livestock from markets in Australia, Romania, and beyond.

As the weather forecast suggests potential rainfall across various provinces, it remains uncertain whether these conditions will adequately address the prevailing challenges faced by the nation.

The recent weather alert in Morocco highlights significant thunderstorms and snowfall that could provide much-needed relief from the ongoing drought affecting the nation. With water reserves critically low, the rainfall forecast raises hopes for improved water availability and agricultural conditions. However, the overall efficacy of these weather changes in alleviating Morocco’s persistent water woes remains to be seen.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com