Recent rains raise Oum Er-Rbia dam reserves to 938 million cubic meters

Friday 09 January 2026 - 08:00

By: Sahili Aya

Recent rains raise Oum Er-Rbia dam reserves to 938 million cubic meters

Recent rainfall has significantly improved water storage levels in Morocco’s Oum Er-Rbia river basin, raising total dam reserves to approximately 938 million cubic meters, according to officials from the Oum Er-Rbia Hydraulic Basin Agency.

Rainfall recorded up to January 8 reached around 251 millimeters, representing an increase of about 75% compared with the annual average. This increase resulted in water inflows estimated at nearly 650 million cubic meters, bringing the basin’s overall dam fill rate to 19%.

Authorities stressed that this improvement will help secure drinking water supplies for several major urban centers, including El Jadida, Youssoufia, Berrechid, Settat, and Sidi Bennour province, extending as far south as the Casablanca metropolitan area.

In agricultural terms, the situation has brought notable relief. Exceptional rainfall in the Chaouia–Doukkala border area allowed smaller and medium-sized dams, such as Daourat and Imfout, to reach full capacity. This development is expected to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply for surrounding towns and rural communities.

Despite these positive indicators, water officials cautioned that long-term water security still depends on responsible resource management and continued efforts to rationalize consumption, particularly in the face of ongoing climate challenges.

Beyond boosting dam reserves, the recent rains have also revitalized grazing lands and reduced pressure on livestock feed, easing financial burdens on farmers and herders under national programs aimed at restoring Morocco’s livestock sector.