Heavy Rainfall to Drench Northern Moroccan Provinces on Wednesday

Tuesday 30 April 2024 - 16:12

Morocco's weather has taken an unexpected turn this April, with chilly temperatures prevailing across several provinces—a stark contrast to the warming trends seen in March. Amid this climatic shift, the General Directorate of Meteorology (DMN) has issued a new weather alert, warning of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms set to drench northern regions of the country on Wednesday.

Residents in the provinces of Tangier-Assilah, Fahs Anjra, Larache, and the mountainous areas of Tetouan should prepare for a deluge of 25-40 millimeters of rain during the morning hours. Thunderstorms are also expected to accompany this downpour, adding drama to the northern skies.

While the cooler temperatures offer a break from the sweltering heat, the substantial rainfall could benefit Morocco's agricultural sector, which has shown remarkable resilience despite adverse weather conditions in recent seasons. A report from the Directorate of Financial Studies and Forecasts (DEPF) notes that the sector's value-added growth surged by an average of 6.2% in 2023, rebounding from a 12.9% drop the previous year.

This rebound is partly due to increased rainfall in recent months, which has helped replenish water reserves. As of April 9, 2024, the filling rate of dams for agricultural purposes stood at 32%, nearly matching the 34% recorded a year earlier on the same date. This replenishment provides a much-needed lifeline to the water-stressed regions.

As Morocco prepares for this impending meteorological event, both residents and authorities are readying themselves for the potential challenges and opportunities that heavy rainfall can bring. This development underscores the nation's ongoing efforts to adapt to changing climate conditions and ensure the sustainability of its vital agriculture sector.