06 Jun 2023 | 01:59 AM UTC
Morocco: Adverse weather forecast across northeastern region through June 6
Severe weather forecast across northeastern Morocco through at least June 6. Transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across northeastern Morocco through at least June 6. Heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany the storms. Heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities, and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.
As of early June 6, Morocco's General Directorate of Meteorology has issued the following warnings:
Orange heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings (the second-highest level on a four-tier scale): Boulemane in Fes-Meknes Region, Figuig Province in Oriental Region, and Errachidia and Midelt provinces in Draa-Tafilalet Region
Yellow heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings: the rest of the affected area
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Additional power outages are possible in areas impacted by the weather system.
Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause additional delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas subject to heavy rainfall and track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
