Morocco Flash Floods: Many Missing and Several Dead

Rabat – Southern Morocco has been hit by devastating flash floods following a series of heavy thunderstorms, causing significant loss of life and property. As authorities continue search and rescue efforts, at least 11 people have been confirmed dead, with many others reported missing in the affected regions.

In Tata, torrential rains swept through the area, leaving 12 people missing. The floods caused the collapse of several homes and disrupted essential services, including electricity and water supplies. Similarly, in Douar Smougen, located in the Marrakech-Safi region, another 12 people have gone missing due to the floods. Tragically, two people lost their lives in Tiznit, with two others rescued. Tafraout also witnessed the death of an elderly person, further underscoring the widespread human toll of the disaster.

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The Moroccan authorities have been quick to respond, with ongoing rescue operations in the affected areas. However, the damage is severe. In addition to the loss of life, 40 homes have been destroyed, and 93 roads, along with essential infrastructure such as phone networks and water supplies, have been severely damaged.

The General Directorate of Meteorology has issued several weather alerts over the past few days, warning of heavy thunderstorms and strong winds in various regions. On Saturday, a new alert was issued, forecasting thunderstorms with rainfall rates of 60 to 100 millimeters across multiple provinces, including Taroudant, Azilal, Al Haouz, and Jerada. The storms are expected to continue until late Sunday night, further complicating rescue and recovery efforts.

In addition to the ongoing devastation in Tata, other provinces such as Errachidia, Zagora, and Tinghir are also experiencing intense weather conditions, with expected rainfall ranging from 20 to 35 millimeters.

The Ministry of Equipment has urged road and highway users to exercise extreme caution due to the hazardous conditions, including low visibility. As heavy rains continue to batter the region, authorities are working tirelessly to address the immediate needs of the affected populations, while urging residents in high-risk areas to remain vigilant.

These floods serve as a stark reminder of the growing vulnerability of many regions in Morocco to extreme weather events, which have become more frequent in recent years. As search and rescue operations continue, the full extent of the devastation is still being assessed. Nonetheless, the human cost of the disaster is already tragically high, with many families grieving for lost loved ones and homes destroyed.

Morocco now faces the dual challenge of responding to the immediate humanitarian crisis while preparing for more potential flooding as the severe weather persists. The resilience of the affected communities will undoubtedly be tested in the days ahead, as authorities mobilize resources to provide relief and support to those in need.