Morocco’s Seven-Year Drought Ends After Record Winter Rainfall

Morocco’s seven-year drought has ended after heavy winter rainfall, with precipitation levels nearly doubling compared to last year and exceeding the seasonal average. The rainfall has boosted dam levels, with several reservoirs now full, easing water shortages and providing relief to the agricultural sector. Despite the improvement, Morocco continues to expand desalination plans to ensure long-term water security.

Morocco’s prolonged seven-year drought has officially come to an end following exceptionally abundant rainfall recorded during the current winter season, according to Water Minister Nizar Baraka, who made the announcement on Monday. The minister explained that rainfall levels this winter have increased dramatically, standing 95% higher than those recorded during the same period last year and exceeding the long-term seasonal average by 17%. He disclosed this information while addressing members of parliament, noting that the improved weather conditions mark a significant turning point for the country after years of severe water scarcity.
As a direct result of the heavy rainfall, Morocco’s water reserves have shown notable recovery. Official data indicate that the average dam-filling rate across the country has risen to 46%, a substantial improvement compared to previous years when many reservoirs were critically low. Several major dams are now operating at full capacity, providing much-needed reassurance regarding water availability for both domestic and economic use. This recovery has eased the pressure on water authorities who, in recent years, were forced to impose strict water restrictions in many regions.
The improved rainfall has brought particular relief to the agricultural sector, which has been among the hardest hit by the prolonged drought. Years of insufficient rainfall had severely depleted dam reserves, leading to a sharp decline in wheat production, a reduction in the national cattle herd, and widespread job losses in farming communities. The lack of water also disrupted rural livelihoods and heightened food security concerns, making agriculture one of the central casualties of the extended dry spell.
During the drought years, the persistent water shortages compelled Morocco to accelerate its investment in alternative water sources, particularly desalination. Faced with dwindling freshwater supplies, the government pushed forward ambitious plans to treat seawater to meet growing demand. Baraka previously told Reuters in December that Morocco now plans to source 60% of its drinking water from desalinated seawater by 2030, a significant increase from the earlier target of 25%. Under this strategy, dam water would be preserved primarily for inland regions, ensuring more balanced and sustainable water distribution across the country.
The recent rainfall does not eliminate the need for long-term water management reforms, but it offers a crucial reprieve after years of strain on natural resources, public infrastructure, and livelihoods. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of diversification of water sources and resilience planning as Morocco adapts to increasingly unpredictable climate conditions.