Algeria, Morocco: Heatwave forecast to persist over the parts of the region through at least the end of July /update 3

Forecast models indicate that high temperatures will persist across parts of Algeria and Morocco through at least July 31. High-temperature warnings are in place across much of Morocco and parts of central, northern, and western Algeria July 12-13 and temperatures of up to 47 C (117 F) are expected to persist over parts of the region through at least the end of July.

As of July 12, Algeria's National Meteorological Office has issued orange (the middle level on a three-tier scale) heat warnings across Adrar, Ain Salah, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, southern Timimoun, and Tindouf provinces through July 13 and western Batna, Djelfa, and M'Sila provinces through July 12. Yellow heat warnings are in place for Ain Delfa, Chlef, El Bayadh, Medea, Relizane, and Tissemsilt provinces. The Moroccan Directorate General of Meteorology issued orange heat warnings across much of the country July 12, with the exception of some eastern coastal and north-central regions, which are under yellow warnings. Orange heat warnings are in place for southern and western regions and yellow warnings across much of the rest of the country July 13. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also pose a threat to vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers being hospitalized for dehydration.

Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Road surface damage is also possible, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on vehicles, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.