16 Mar 2022 | 03:24 PM UTC
Morocco: Adverse weather forecast across northern and central regions through March 17
Severe weather forecast across northern and central Morocco through at least March 17. Transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall, snowfall, cold temperatures, and strong winds are forecast across much of northern and central Morocco through at least March 17. Snowfall and cold temperatures are expected across mountainous regions of the country, with rainfall more likely at lower elevations.
As of March 16, Morocco's General Directorate of Meteorology has issued the following warnings:
Orange snowfall and cold wave warnings (the second-highest level on a four-tier scale): Al Hociema Province in Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Region; Figuig and Guercif provinces in Oriental Region; Boulemane, Ifrane, Sefrou, and Taza provinces in Fes-Meknes Region; Azilal, Beni-Mellal and Khenifra provinces in Beni Mellal-Khenifra region; Al Haouz Province in Marrakech-Safi Region; Midelt, Ouarzazate, and Tinghir provinces in Draa-Tafilalet Region; and Taroudannt
Orange rainfall warnings: Al Haouz Province in Marrakech-Safi Region.
Orange strong wind warnings: Ouarzazate Province in Draa-Tafilalet Region and Taroudannt Province in Souss-Massa Region.
Yellow rainfall warnings: El Kelaa des Sraghna Province in Marrakech-Safi Region.
Yellow snowfall warnings: El Hajeb province in Fes-Meknes Region.
Yellow cold wave warnings: Chefchaouene Province in Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Region; Jerada and Taourirt provinces in Oriental Region; Taounate and El Hajeb provinces in Fes-Meknes Region; and Errachidia Province in Draa-Tafilalet Region.
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 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.
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.
