Thunderstorms and Snowfall Expected in Morocco Amid Ongoing Drought Crisis
Heavy thunderstorms and snowfall are anticipated in several Moroccan provinces today, with rain forecasted to bring much-needed relief after six years of drought. The government has implemented significant measures in response to the severe water scarcity affecting the country’s agriculture and overall water supplies, culminating in the cancellation of traditional rituals. Although the rain forecast appears promising, its actual impact on the ongoing drought challenges remains to be seen.
A new weather alert indicates heavy thunderstorms and snowfall are expected to impact several provinces in Morocco today. According to the national weather office, provinces such as Fez, Moulay Yacoub, and Taounate will experience thunderstorms with rainfall ranging from 30 to 50 millimeters and potential hail, expected from this morning until 4 p.m.
The weather forecasts predict similar conditions in provinces including Chefchaouen, Al Hoceima, Oujda-Angad, Taourirt, Guercif, Berkane, Driouch, Nador, Jerada, and Boulemane from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Snowfall of 5 to 15 centimeters is also expected in mountainous areas above 1,600 meters, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Al Haouz, Azilal, Midelt, Tinghir, Beni Mellal, Ouarzazate, Taroudant, Ifrane, and Boulemane.
These rain alerts bring hope to Morocco, which has faced severe drought conditions for the past six consecutive seasons. Current statistics reveal that the country’s water reserves are critically low, with dams holding only 4.6 billion cubic meters of water, leading to a filling rate of just 28%. This water scarcity impacts drinking water supply and threatens agriculture.
In response to the ongoing drought, the Moroccan government has taken significant actions, including the cancellation of the Eid Al Adha sacrifice ritual, an announcement made by King Mohammed VI to address the nation’s water crisis. Furthermore, Morocco has increasingly relied on imports for essential goods, such as red meat and livestock, from countries like Australia and Romania.
The effectiveness of the impending rain forecasts across various provinces in alleviating Morocco’s water stress remains uncertain, considering the extensive measures taken to combat ongoing drought conditions that have severely impacted the country’s agriculture and water resources.
In summary, Morocco is bracing for significant thunderstorms and snowfall, particularly in multiple provinces, offering a glimmer of hope amid a long-standing drought crisis. Current water reserve statistics highlight a critical situation, prompting governmental interventions, including cancelation of traditional practices such as the Eid Al Adha sacrifice. While the rains could provide some relief, the future impacts on agriculture and water supply will depend on the extent and effectiveness of the rainfall.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
