Moroccan authorities evacuate villages near Ksar el Kebir ahead of potential floods

Moroccan authorities evacuate villages near Ksar el Kebir ahead of potential floods
Friday 30 January 2026 - 23:00

Authorities in northern Morocco have begun evacuating residents from seven rural villages near Ksar el Kebir as precautionary measures against potential floods following the release of excess water from Wadi Al-Makhazin Dam.

According to local Hespress AR sources, the villages affected — Mowara’a, Skouma, Amer, Soualeh, Chlihat, Chni’a, and Oulad Khzal — fall under the jurisdiction of the rural communes of Al-Swaken and Oulad Oushih. Residents are being relocated to the nearby commune of Souk Al-Talaba, where authorities have set up tents and supplied essential provisions.

Officials also arranged shelters for livestock, including cattle and sheep, commonly raised in the area, though some locals criticized the lack of assistance in moving their animals.

The evacuation follows the creation of a large breach in a barrier separating Wadi Al-Lokus from the affected villages, allowing authorities to relieve pressure on water levels threatening Ksar el Kebir’s urban neighborhoods. While this measure protects the city, it puts surrounding villages and agricultural land at risk of flooding, with potential damage to homes and crops.

The Wadi Al-Makhazin Dam was partially opened Friday evening to discharge excess water in anticipation of heavy rainfall expected in the region on Monday. Local authorities have emphasized that the evacuations are preventive, aimed at averting potential disasters and protecting residents in the event of severe flooding.

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