Morocco: Growing concerns as temperatures soar to 46°C
Morocco has been gripped by an intense heatwave since July 2nd, with thundery showers, strong winds, and hail to follow. According to the General Directorate of Meteorology (DGM), this will affect several provinces, prompting the issuance of an orange-level weather alert and raising the ministry’s concern for public safety.
As published by Yabiladi, the official figures from DGM predict temperatures between 41°C and 46°C until July 5th in the designated areas of Kénitra, Taounate, Meknès, Fès, Moulay Yacoub, Khémisset, Sidi Kacem, Sidi Slimane, Khouribga, Fquih Ben Salah, Settat, Youssoufia, Rehamna, El Kelâa des Sraghna, Chichaoua, Marrakech, Taroudant, Zagora, Tata, Assa-Zag, Boujdour, Es-Semara, Aousserd, and Oued Ed-Dahab.
Several other provinces, including Larache, Salé, Rabat, Skhirate-Témara, Nouaceur, Casablanca, Mohammedia, Berrechid, Benslimane, Mediouna, El Jadida, Sidi Bennour, Essaouira, Safi, Ouezzane, Khénifra, Béni Mellal, El Hajeb, Ifrane, and Sefrou, are expected to have temperatures ranging from 38°C to 41°C.
The Moroccan Ministry of Health has advised citizens to take preventive measures, such as avoiding direct sun exposure and staying hydrated, particularly those who are outdoors for extended periods.
It further encourages citizens to remain indoors during peak temperatures, especially between 12 and 4 p.m., to seek air-conditioned or well-ventilated areas, wear lighter clothing, avoid strenuous activity, and monitor vulnerable groups.
It stresses that symptoms related to heat exhaustion or stroke, such as high fever, excessive fatigue, lightheadedness, unusual drowsiness, headaches, dehydration, muscle pain, confusion, visible redness, or agitation, should prompt immediate medical attention.
The ministry has introduced a national heatwave response plan focused on enhancing health monitoring and surveillance, increasing access to healthcare services, bolstering emergency departments to ensure the availability of medicines, and improving public awareness and sun-safety campaigns.
In the ministry’s concluding message, it adds: “The ministry reiterates its call for everyone to follow preventive guidelines and show solidarity with the most vulnerable members of society in order to reduce the health risks associated with extreme heat and protect the health and safety of all”
Yabiladi and agencies, HESPRESS English and agencies, Maghrebi.org
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