Morocco Issues Orange Alert for Severe Weather This Weekend

Morocco has issued an orange alert for severe weather conditions this weekend, including significant snowfall, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. The adverse weather is set to begin Friday evening and last until Saturday, affecting several provinces and potentially posing risks to the local population and infrastructure.

In response to impending severe weather, Morocco’s General Directorate of Meteorology has issued an orange alert set to take effect over the weekend. It warns of an array of hazardous conditions, including significant snowfall, heavy rainfall, and strong winds forecasted to affect various provinces starting Friday evening and continuing into Saturday.

Snowfall is anticipated across several regions—specifically Ifrane, Boulemane, Azilal, Béni Mellal, Al Haouz, Chichaoua, Tinghir, Ouarzazate, Midelt, Khénifra, and Taroudant—where areas above 1,600 meters may accumulate between 10 to 25 cm of snow.

Heavy rainfall is predicted for provinces such as Kenitra, Sidi Kacem, Sidi Slimane, Ouezzane, Nouaceur, El Jadida, Sidi Bennour, Settat, Casablanca, Berrechid, Taroudant, and Agadir-Ida-Outanane, potentially reaching 25 to 40 mm. Accompanying these rains could be thunderstorms from Friday evening until midnight.

Additionally, provinces including Nador, Al Hoceima, Berkane, Driouch, Taourirt, and Oujda-Angad will experience weather impacts from Friday evening until Saturday evening. Winds are expected to reach speeds of 70 to 85 km/h, particularly in Figuig, Jerada, Errachidia, Ouarzazate, Zagora, Boulemane, Taourirt, and Tinghir. These winds are predicted to be associated with dust storms, likely affecting visibility and air quality.

In summary, the Moroccan meteorological authority has raised an orange alert due to severe weather forecast over the weekend. Residents are warned of significant snowfall, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, which could pose various risks. Authorities advise preparation for hazardous conditions, particularly in the specified provinces, to ensure safety.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com