Morocco: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across southeastern regions as of Sept. 9 /update 1

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of southeastern Morocco as of Sept. 9. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms have been impacting the region since Sept. 6, triggering widespread flooding in the region. Authorities have reported at least 11 flood-related fatalities across Errachidia, Tata, and Tiznit provinces and nine others are missing across Errachidia, Tata, and Taraoudant provinces. Around 40 homes and 93 roads have been damaged by the floods and power, water supply, and network outages have been reported across the affected area. Protracted disruptions are likely in the region over the coming days as response and recovery operations continue.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 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 rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Due to the region's arid nature 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). Moderate winds and dust storms may precede significant rainfall, though some areas—particularly desert areas—may experience high dust levels without rain.

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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.