Severe Weather Alert: Rain and Snowfall Expected Across Moroccan Provinces
Morocco faces imminent thunderstorms and snowfall across various provinces, with heavy rain expected to provide relief from a severe drought. Alarmingly low water reserves have led to significant government measures, including the cancellation of agricultural rituals. Imports of essential commodities have become necessary to meet local demands during this critical period.
In a recent weather alert, significant thunderstorms and snowfall have been predicted for various provinces in Morocco. The National Meteorological Directorate has indicated that thunderstorms producing between 30 and 50 millimeters of rain and potential hail are expected to commence this morning and continue until 4 p.m. in the regions of Fez, Moulay Yacoub, and Taounate.
Furthermore, similar weather patterns are anticipated to start in Chefchaouen, Al Hoceima, Oujda-Angad, Taourirt, Guercif, Berkane, Driouch, Nador, Jerada, and Boulemane from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. Additionally, snowfall accumulating between 5 and 15 centimeters is forecasted for areas exceeding 1,600 meters in altitude. This snowfall is expected to occur in Al Haouz, Azilal, Midelt, Tinghir, Beni Mellal, Ouarzazate, Taroudant, Ifrane, and Boulemane from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
These rain alerts provide a glimmer of hope for Morocco, a country experiencing severe drought conditions for the past six consecutive seasons. Current statistics reveal that Morocco’s water reserves in dams have dwindled to only 4.6 billion cubic meters, reflecting a distressing filling rate of 28%. This precarious situation not only hampers the availability of drinking water but is also detrimental to agriculture in the region.
In response to the ongoing water crisis, the Moroccan government, alongside the monarchy, has implemented notable measures, including the suspension of the Eid Al Adha sacrifice ritual. King Mohammed VI recently voiced concerns over the growing water stress, highlighting the dire nature of the situation.
As a result of the ongoing drought and insufficient rainfall, Morocco has resorted to importing essential commodities to satisfy local demand. This includes sourcing red meat and livestock from nations such as Australia and Romania. The effectiveness of the impending rain in alleviating these pressing challenges remains to be seen.
The recent weather alert in Morocco indicates imminent thunderstorms and snowfall across several provinces, raising hopes for relief from the prolonged drought. With alarming water reserve statistics, the impact on both drinking water supply and agriculture is severe, prompting drastic measures from the government. The situation underscores the importance of forecasting and preparedness in facing such environmental challenges, while the potential effects of rainfall on current conditions await further assessment.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
