Flash Floods Impact Morocco's Safi Region
Flash floods in Morocco's coastal Safi region have resulted in at least 37 fatalities, according to reports from state-owned television.
The event followed torrential rainfall on Sunday, during which cars and accumulated debris were observed moving through the main port city of Safi. Local authorities reported that dozens of individuals are currently receiving medical treatment for injuries. Additionally, approximately 70 homes located in the old city center have been inundated.
Local reports indicate that access routes to and from the city are obstructed in several areas due to damage and debris. Moroccan authorities have confirmed that search and rescue operations are ongoing.
Climatic Context and Forecast
Experts have indicated that the climate crisis is a contributing factor to the extreme weather fluctuations observed in Morocco. The North African nation has experienced seven consecutive years of drought, which has led to significant depletion of its water reservoirs. The previous year was officially registered as the hottest on record.
Morocco's weather service has issued a forecast predicting that the current period of heavy rainfall will continue into Tuesday, with snowfall also anticipated across the Atlas Mountains.