Severe Heat Wave and Storms Expected in Morocco
Between Saturday, June 20, and Tuesday, June 23, 2026, several provinces in Morocco are facing a significant heat wave accompanied by severe thunderstorms, as highlighted in an orange alert issued by the General Directorate of Meteorology (DGM). The maximum temperatures are projected to soar between 39°C and 42°C throughout the weekend in regions such as Taza, Berkane, Oujda-Angad, Fès, Moulay Yacoub, and Taounate. These extreme conditions may exacerbate water stress on existing crops and increase irrigation needs, particularly in fruit and vegetable farming areas.
The situation is expected to be even more severe in the Oriental region, the Southeast, and the Saharan provinces. The DGM forecasts that temperatures will range from 39°C to 44°C from Saturday through Tuesday in provinces including Errachidia, Jerada, Taourirt, Figuig, Zagora, Tata, Boujdour, Oued Ed-Dahab, Aousserd, Guercif, Boulemane, Assa-Zag, and Es-Semara. For farmers and livestock breeders in these areas, these meteorological conditions demand heightened vigilance. High temperatures can disrupt the thermal comfort of livestock, increase their water demands, and accelerate the evapotranspiration rates of crops. Furthermore, labor-intensive agricultural activities should be scheduled during the cooler hours of the day to mitigate adverse effects.
Thunderstorm Risks and Agricultural Precautions
In conjunction with this heat wave, strong thunderstorms are anticipated on Saturday between 2 PM and 11 PM in the provinces of Khénifra, El Hajeb, Ifrane, and Sefrou. Rainfall accumulation is expected to reach between 20 and 30 mm, with the possibility of hail and wind gusts during storm events. Such weather phenomena can lead to localized damage to crops, particularly in mountainous areas where orchards and sensitive vegetable productions may be affected by hail. Producers are urged to monitor weather reports closely and take necessary precautions whenever feasible.
According to the DGM, this meteorological episode is expected to continue until Tuesday, June 23, in the provinces affected by the heat wave. For more detailed weather updates, visit the DGM's official communications.
As reported by agrimaroc.ma.
