High waves disrupt fishing activities in Morocco as meteorologists advise caution

Previous weather warnings, which reached a “red” alert level for the Atlantic coasts between Mehdia and Safi, indicated that from Thursday morning, large waves from the northwest would affect the Atlantic shores between Cape Spartel in Tangier and Tarfaya. The highest risks were anticipated between Mehdia and Safi during the morning and midday hours.

These rough sea conditions have disrupted activities for many fishermen, particularly traditional coastal fishers in ports like Larache and Mehdia. Fouad Boudina, a member of the National Fisheries Association, stated that the National Ports Agency must warn fishermen and prohibit entry into the sea when wave heights reach dangerous levels.

He emphasized that these conditions pose a serious threat, especially for traditional coastal fishing in river-based ports like Larache and Mehdia.

Boudina noted that Mehdia port professionals have long urged authorities to issue official warnings when waves reach 2.6 meters, leading to the implementation of a special signal prohibiting sea access, which has helped reduce drowning incidents. However, he pointed out that some fishermen in Larache still take risky ventures, sometimes resulting in accidents.

A safety official from the Mehdia Maritime Delegation confirmed that authorities, in coordination with relevant coastal services, have been monitoring wave height increases using updated weather data. Fishermen and maritime professionals have been advised that conditions are unsafe for navigation. The Ports Agency has also placed warning signs and signal lights to inform about sea conditions.

According to updated meteorological data, high tide levels on Thursday were expected to range between 2.9 and 3.9 meters, occurring between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m., and again between 3:50 and 4:30 p.m. The weather is expected to improve on the northern coasts of “Ras Kair” from Friday morning, with southern coasts stabilizing by Saturday, February 1, 2025.

The Moroccan Meteorological Service explained that the current high waves on the country’s western coasts result from disturbances in the Atlantic Ocean. The region is experiencing indirect effects from a deep low-pressure system over the North Atlantic, extending toward Western Europe.

This system, accompanied by strong winds exceeding 100 km/h, generates waves between 4 and 6.5 meters, which travel toward European and Moroccan coasts. The strong influence of tidal movements further amplifies wave heights, particularly in open coastal areas.

The Ministry of Equipment and Water has urged sailors and sea-goers to exercise caution and avoid taking risks during this period. The ministry advised against venturing into affected waters and recommended staying away from low-lying beaches prone to powerful waves.

Additionally, it stressed the importance of postponing fishing and navigation activities until conditions improve while continuously monitoring weather bulletins for updates.