Morocco prioritizes high-altitude regions in national cold-weather response Plan

Morocco’s national plan to mitigate the effects of severe weather and cold waves prioritizes high-altitude regions most exposed to isolation and harsh conditions, according to Interior Ministry data.

The ministry said geographic and altitude-based zoning is a key indicator in understanding the national response strategy, noting that areas above 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) are particularly vulnerable to extreme cold and temporary isolation. This approach, officials said, explains why certain provinces receive priority support and reflects a structured, non-random allocation of resources.

Authorities said the plan focuses on protecting vulnerable groups, including 665 people without stable housing, 2,790 pregnant women and 18,722 elderly residents across affected regions.

The ministry added that population data help underscore the humanitarian dimension of the plan, which emphasizes protecting lives and solidarity rather than relying solely on logistical measures. Officials said categorizing at-risk groups allows for a more targeted and human-centered response.

As part of this winter’s preparedness efforts, authorities have scheduled the distribution of 4,540 metric tons of firewood and 10,421 modern heaters, in coordination with the National Agency for Water and Forests and the Ministry of Health and Social Protection.

In addition, 1,024 snow-removal machines have been mobilized in coordination with the Ministry of Equipment and Water and pre-positioned along roads most likely to be affected by snowfall to ensure rapid intervention and prevent communities from being cut off.

The Interior Ministry said the scale of resources deployed reflects the plan’s coordinated, multi-sector approach and demonstrates a shift toward anticipatory and sustainable public action, rather than reactive emergency management.