A sweeping heatwave driven by Saharan thermal depressions continues to grip Morocco, with peak temperatures surpassing seasonal norms by 5 to 10 degrees Celsius in multiple regions, particularly the southern province of Souss.
According to updated forecasts from the national meteorology department, the scorching weather is expected to persist until Friday, with only a slight reprieve anticipated over the weekend before intensifying again next week.
On Tuesday, nine cities reported temperatures above 40°C, with the highest readings recorded in Taroudant and Agadir-Massira, where thermometers reached 46°C—up to 17 degrees above local averages.
Other hotspots included Beni Mellal and Smara at 44°C, followed by Marrakech, Fès-Saïs, and Sidi Slimane at 41°C, and Settat and Oujda at 40°C.
“This heatwave is notable not only for the intensity of the temperatures but also for the wide geographic spread it covers—from the southeastern provinces and interior Souss to the central plains, the phosphate and Oulmes plateaus, and into parts of the Atlas and western interior,” said Hussein Youabed, spokesperson for the meteorological directorate.
The early onset of such extreme conditions points to an unusually strong and premature version of the typical midsummer period.
From Friday through early next week, some moderation is expected, with lows returning to closer-to-normal ranges and increased morning fog or drizzle along the coasts.
However, cumulonimbus formations may still trigger thunderstorms and hail in mountainous and southern areas, while wind gusts and localized dust storms remain a risk, particularly in the southeast.
Authorities have urged citizens to avoid sun exposure during peak hours, stay hydrated, and monitor official bulletins, particularly as vulnerable populations remain at risk.
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