17 Sep 2023 | 12:34 PM UTC
Morocco, Western Sahara: Adverse weather forecast across eastern Morocco, Western Sahara, Sept. 17
Severe weather forecast across eastern Morocco and Western Sahara, Sept. 17. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Morocco's Directorate-General for Meteorology (DGM) has issued various orange and yellow hail, thunderstorm, and wind weather warnings for provinces across the east of Morocco and most of Western Sahara, Sept. 17. Heavy rainfall is expected 14:00-23:00. Full details regarding impacted departments are available here. Authorities will likely update weather alerts over the coming hours.
The following provinces have been issued an orange warning (dangerous weather forecast): Berkane, Boulemane, Jerada, Figuig, Guiercif, Nador, Oujda-Angade, and Sefrou. The coastal area between Cap Bojador and Point Durnford is under an orange warning.
The following provinces have been issued a yellow warning (occasionally and locally dangerous weather): Driouch, Taza, Ifrane, Khenifra, Midelt, Errachidia, Azilal, Tinghir, Zagora, Al Haouz, Ouarzazate, Tata, Taroudannt, Tarfaya, Es-Semara, Laayoune, Boujdour, Oued Ed-Dahab, and Aousserd. The area between Mohammedia and Cap Bojador, and between Pointe Durnford and Cap Barbas is also under warning.
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 stormwater drainage systems. Sites 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. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
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. The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding is forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
