Heavy rainfall in the Tiznit region of southwestern Morocco has triggered severe flooding, prompting authorities to suspend classes in all educational institutions on Monday. Schools are expected to reopen on Tuesday, pending further assessment of the situation.
Video footage circulating online depicts powerful floodwaters surging through streets, inundating a mosque and overflowing riverbanks in the Tafraout area. Concerns are mounting regarding potential damage to residential areas and infrastructure.
The downpour follows warnings issued by Morocco’s General Directorate of Meteorology, which predicted heavy rains, snowfall, and strong winds across several regions of the kingdom through Tuesday. The meteorological agency had previously indicated that Morocco was experiencing a period of intense precipitation, coupled with a cold wave potentially bringing temperatures as low as -9 degrees Celsius in certain areas. Snowfall ranging from 10 to 80 centimeters was anticipated at altitudes between 1200 and 1500 meters.
The recent weather events follow a period of intense drought. Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, announced last week that Morocco was emerging from a seven-year drought, citing the significant rainfall recorded in recent months as a turning point. According to the Minister, the recent rainfall resulted in an increase in the dam filling rate.
DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
