Natural Phenomenon Behind Receding Sea Levels Along Moroccan Coast

Wednesday 07 August 2024 - 08:45

Directorate General of Meteorology Dispels Tsunami Fears

Beachgoers along Morocco's coastline have recently been puzzled and alarmed by a noticeable drop in sea levels. This dramatic change has sparked widespread concern and speculation about the possibility of an impending tsunami.

In response to these public fears, the Directorate General of Meteorology (DGM) issued a clarifying statement yesterday. The DGM reassured the public that the receding sea levels are a natural phenomenon, primarily driven by tidal forces, and are not indicative of any tsunami threat.

"The drop in sea level observed in recent days on the Moroccan coasts is due to tides, a natural phenomenon linked to the forces of attraction of the moon and the sun, and especially to the particular alignment of the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun at the time of the full moon," the DGM explained.

The statement emphasized the regularity and predictability of this occurrence, noting that it is a well-known and not uncommon event. "This drop in sea level has no connection with the phenomenon of a tsunami," the DGM reiterated.

Further elaborating on the nature of tides, the DGM highlighted that the Moroccan coast experiences semi-diurnal tides, which include two high tides and two low tides each day, approximately 12 hours and 25 minutes apart.

Utilizing their tidal prediction model, "ALJAZER," the DGM reported that the lowest sea level for July 2024 along the Moroccan coast was recorded on Tuesday, July 23, coinciding with the full moon. The recorded heights varied from 0.15 to 0.20 meters in the Mediterranean and 0.60 meters in the Atlantic Ocean.

Experts have corroborated the DGM's findings, noting that similar phenomena have been observed in various countries, including Palestine, Lebanon, and several European nations. While some hypotheses suggest links to climate change, water depth, or planetary alignment, the gravitational influence of the moon and sun remains the most plausible explanation for tidal movements.

Addressing concerns about potential tsunamis, experts clarified that the current sea level recession is unrelated to the mechanisms that trigger such events. The recent appearance of evacuation route signs in the city of El Jadida, part of a UNESCO-funded project in collaboration with Chouaib Doukkali University, aims to raise awareness and prepare coastal cities for potential emergencies but does not signify an imminent threat.

The DGM concluded by reassuring the public that these tidal fluctuations are a natural phenomenon, regularly observed during the summer and winter equinoxes, and part of the Earth's dynamic systems.

This comprehensive explanation aims to calm public anxiety and underscore the importance of scientific understanding in interpreting natural events. As the coastal community continues to enjoy Morocco's beaches, it remains essential to stay informed and appreciate the natural processes shaping our world.