Morocco Faces Severe Flooding: Thousands Evacuated Amidst Torrential Rains
Morocco is currently battling the devastating aftermath of torrential downpours, which have triggered widespread flooding across several regions, particularly in the north. Authorities are engaged in extensive evacuation operations, relocating thousands of residents to safety as the nation contends with the severe impact of an Atlantic weather system.
Tragic Toll in Tetouan as Evacuations Intensify
The human cost of the severe weather has been tragically felt in Tetouan, where four lives have been lost and a fifth individual remains unaccounted for following a sudden storm that ravaged Lamouawaja village in Bni Harchen, Jbel Lahbib, last Saturday. This somber news underscores the urgency of the ongoing relief efforts.
Mass Evacuations Underway Across Affected Regions
In a monumental effort to safeguard its citizens, Moroccan authorities have successfully evacuated at least 1,338 families, comprising over 6,686 individuals, from the flood-affected Sidi Slimane region in the northwestern center of the country. This large-scale operation, which commenced on Monday, saw residents transferred to specially mobilized shelter centers, while many others sought refuge with relatives.
Further demonstrating the proactive response, approximately 170 individuals, including those with urgent medical needs, were evacuated to health centers on Sunday, ensuring critical care amidst the crisis. Security services have played a pivotal role, assisting in the evacuation of over 150,000 people from various low-lying, flood-prone areas, including Ksar El Kebir and Sidi Cacem.
Meteorological Outlook and Humanitarian Response
The General Directorate of Meteorology has issued further warnings, forecasting continued strong rainfall and stormy conditions, accompanied by a risk of hail, through Tuesday at 12 p.m. Northern provinces, including Tangier-Assilah, M’Diq-Fnideq, Fhas-Anjra, Chefchaouen, Tetouane, Larache, and Ouezzane, are expected to bear the brunt, with rainfall accumulations of 40 to 60 millimeters anticipated.
The meteorological directorate attributes this severe weather pattern to the indirect influence of Storm Marta, an Atlantic system continuously pushing humid and unstable air towards the Moroccan coast. Beyond evacuations, authorities are actively distributing essential food aid to affected families, while the ongoing situation has also led to the suspension of classes in northern Morocco, impacting education.
As Morocco navigates this challenging period, the focus remains firmly on humanitarian aid, public safety, and mitigating the widespread disruption caused by the relentless rainfall.
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