Morocco’s national weather service issued an orange-level heat alert Friday, warning of an exceptional heat wave fueled by Saharan winds expected to last through Tuesday.
The extreme weather is forecast to affect large swathes of the country, from the northern coast to the southern provinces, with localized thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds also in the forecast.
According to the General Directorate of Meteorology (DGM), maximum temperatures will soar above 46°C in some areas, potentially reaching 48°C in southern provinces, due to a surge of hot, dry air from the Sahara intensified by the “chergui,” a dry continental wind known for exacerbating heat and dryness.
Beginning Friday, the provinces of Tata, Taroudant, Assa-Zag, Smara, Oued Ed-Dahab, Boujdour, and Aousserd will face the highest temperatures, ranging from 44°C to 48°C. These conditions are expected to persist through Tuesday, indicating a prolonged and intense heat wave.
Other southern regions, including Laâyoune, Tarfaya, Tan-Tan, and Guelmim, will experience similar heat over the weekend before a slight dip in temperatures early next week.
The heat wave will also extend to central Morocco. Between Saturday and Tuesday, temperatures of 42°C to 46°C are expected in several provinces, including Fkih Ben Salah, Béni Mellal, El Kelaâ des Sraghna, Rehamna, Settat, Chichaoua, Marrakech, Youssoufia, Azilal, Al Haouz, Essaouira, Sidi Bennour, Safi, Inezgane-Aït Melloul, Chtouka-Aït Baha, Agadir Ida-Outanane, Tiznit, and Sidi Ifni.
From Sunday to Tuesday, even typically milder northern and central provinces will be affected. Ouezzane, Larache, Kénitra, Fès, Meknès, Moulay Yacoub, Taounate, Khémisset, Khouribga, Sidi Kacem, Sidi Slimane, Benslimane, Berrechid, and El Jadida are expected to see highs between 42°C and 46°C.
Coastal areas near Rabat and Casablanca, including Salé, Skhirat-Témara, Médiouna, Nouaceur, Khénifra, Sefrou, Taza, and El Hajeb, will not be spared, with temperatures forecast to reach 39°C to 42°C between Sunday and Tuesday.
In addition to the heat wave, the DGM issued a separate orange-level thunderstorm alert for Friday between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. Localized thunderstorms are expected, particularly in the provinces of Ifrane, Boulemane, Khénifra, and Midelt, with rainfall totals estimated between 15 and 30 millimeters. These storms may also bring hail and strong wind gusts.
The DGM warned that these isolated storms could cause flash floods, sudden runoff in mountainous areas, and damage to crops and infrastructure. Residents in affected areas are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain indoors during storm periods.
Local authorities, civil protection services, and healthcare facilities have been placed on alert. Health officials warn that high temperatures can pose serious risks, especially to the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses.
Experts recommend avoiding physical activity during peak heat hours, staying hydrated, wearing light-colored clothing, and minimizing sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Farmers and livestock owners are also advised to take measures to protect animals and water-sensitive crops.
While summer heat waves are not unusual in Morocco, this event is notable for both its geographic scope and duration, which is expected to exceed five consecutive days. Meteorologists say such extreme events could become more frequent and intense due to climate change.
The DGM continues to monitor the situation closely and will issue updated advisories as conditions evolve.
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