Morocco Launches Nationwide Emergency Response as Extreme Winter Weather Hits

Morocco has launched a nationwide emergency response to extreme winter weather, including snow, heavy rain, and flash floods, aiming to assist around 73,000 households across 28 provinces. The severe conditions have killed at least 37 people in Safi, damaged homes, and disrupted transport, prompting authorities to mobilise aid, clear roads, and ensure access to remote areas.

Morocco has initiated a major nationwide emergency response as extreme winter weather, including freezing temperatures, heavy rainfall, snow, and flash floods, continues to affect large parts of the country. The government launched the operation on Tuesday, targeting 28 provinces that have been severely impacted by the harsh conditions. Authorities plan to reach approximately 73,000 households, providing essential food supplies, blankets, and other relief materials to assist vulnerable communities in coping with the unusually severe winter.

Meteorological authorities have issued red alerts for areas expecting heavy snowfall, particularly in the High Atlas mountains, where accumulations could reach up to 80 centimetres. Much of central and northern Morocco faces orange alerts due to intense rainfall, which has already caused significant damage and loss of life. Flash floods in the coastal city of Safi over the past weekend claimed at least 37 lives, destroyed numerous homes, and swept away vehicles, highlighting the immediate dangers posed by the extreme weather.

Under the national response plan, Moroccan authorities have mobilised resources to ensure access to remote and high-altitude areas, maintain critical services, and assist affected populations. Teams responsible for road clearance, monitoring centres, and provincial vigilance committees are working tirelessly to keep routes open, facilitate the delivery of aid, and respond rapidly to emergencies as they arise.

Officials have warned that the cold and snowy conditions are expected to persist over the coming days and have urged residents to exercise caution, particularly when travelling in vulnerable areas. The government’s relief efforts reflect Morocco’s broader strategy to protect communities at risk and to mitigate the social and economic impacts of extreme weather. By coordinating emergency response measures across multiple provinces and mobilising national resources, authorities aim to reduce casualties, prevent further property damage, and support affected families until conditions improve.

The ongoing response underscores the challenges Morocco faces in dealing with extreme weather events, particularly in regions that are prone to flooding and snow accumulation. By prioritising aid distribution, maintaining accessibility to critical areas, and ensuring coordinated action across provincial and national agencies, the country seeks to safeguard its citizens and minimise the long-term consequences of the severe winter conditions.