Morocco Faces Intense Heat Wave with Temperatures Approaching 48°C
Morocco is preparing for an exceptional heat wave, with the national weather service issuing an orange-level alert. This extreme weather event, driven by hot and dry winds from the Sahara, is expected to last through Tuesday. The heat will impact large parts of the country, ranging from the northern coast to the southern provinces. In addition to the intense heat, localized thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds are also forecasted.
According to the General Directorate of Meteorology (DGM), maximum temperatures are expected to rise above 46°C in some areas, with certain southern regions potentially reaching as high as 48°C. This surge in temperature is due to a flow of hot, dry air from the Sahara, intensified by the "chergui" wind—a dry continental wind known for increasing heat and aridity.
Starting from Friday, several southern provinces such as Tata, Taroudant, Assa-Zag, Smara, Oued Ed-Dahab, Boujdour, and Aousserd will experience the highest temperatures, ranging from 44°C to 48°C. These conditions are expected to persist through Tuesday, indicating a prolonged and severe heat wave.
Other southern areas, including Laâyoune, Tarfaya, Tan-Tan, and Guelmim, will also face similar heat over the weekend before a slight drop in temperatures early next week. The heat wave will not be limited to the south; central Morocco will also feel its effects.
Between Saturday and Tuesday, temperatures between 42°C and 46°C are expected in several central provinces, including Fkih Ben Salah, Béni Mellal, El Kelaâ des Sraghna, Rehamna, Settat, Chichaoua, Marrakech, Youssoufia, Azilal, Al Haouz, Essaouira, Sidi Bennour, Safi, Inezgane-Aït Melloul, Chtouka-Aït Baha, Agadir Ida-Outanane, Tiznit, and Sidi Ifni.
From Sunday to Tuesday, even typically milder northern and central provinces will be affected. Areas such as Ouezzane, Larache, Kénitra, Fès, Meknès, Moulay Yacoub, Taounate, Khémisset, Khouribga, Sidi Kacem, Sidi Slimane, Benslimane, Berrechid, and El Jadida are expected to see highs between 42°C and 46°C.
Coastal areas near Rabat and Casablanca, including Salé, Skhirat-Témara, Médiouna, Nouaceur, Khénifra, Sefrou, Taza, and El Hajeb, will also experience elevated temperatures, with forecasts predicting highs between 39°C and 42°C between Sunday and Tuesday.
In addition to the heat wave, the DGM has issued a separate orange-level thunderstorm alert for Friday between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. Localized thunderstorms are expected, particularly in the provinces of Ifrane, Boulemane, Khénifra, and Midelt, with rainfall totals estimated between 15 and 30 millimeters. These storms may also bring hail and strong wind gusts.
The DGM warned that these isolated storms could cause flash floods, sudden runoff in mountainous areas, and damage to crops and infrastructure. Residents in affected areas are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain indoors during storm periods.
Local authorities, civil protection services, and healthcare facilities have been placed on high alert. Health officials warn that high temperatures can pose serious risks, especially to the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses.
Experts recommend avoiding physical activity during peak heat hours, staying hydrated, wearing light-colored clothing, and minimizing sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Farmers and livestock owners are also advised to take measures to protect animals and water-sensitive crops.
While summer heat waves are not unusual in Morocco, this event stands out for its geographic scope and duration, which is expected to exceed five consecutive days. Meteorologists suggest that such extreme events could become more frequent and intense due to climate change.
The DGM continues to monitor the situation closely and will issue updated advisories as conditions evolve.