Moroccan authorities ordered large-scale evacuations on Wednesday across flood-prone areas in the country’s northwest as heavy rainfall, overflowing rivers and emergency water releases from dams sharply increased the risk of flooding.
According to the Interior Ministry, 108,432 people have been evacuated so far. Helicopters have been deployed for rescue operations, and the army has been on the ground since Friday following a red alert for continued heavy rainfall.
Northwest regions under severe pressure
The evacuations primarily affect the Gharb region, a low-lying agricultural area that plays a critical role in Morocco’s wheat production. Weeks of intense rain, combined with poor drainage and flat terrain, have left large parts of the region vulnerable to inundation.
Official data shows rainfall levels are 215% higher than last year and 54% above the historical average, overwhelming rivers and reservoirs across the northwest.
Larache province hit hardest
Evacuation orders were issued in several areas of Larache province, including Ksar El Kebir, Souaken, Ouled Ouchih, the Larache industrial zone and communities near the Loukous River.
Authorities said approximately 85% of Ksar El Kebir’s population has already left the city. State television showed evacuees receiving shelter, food and basic services in temporary camps.
Large sections of Ksar El Kebir remain submerged after the Loukous River burst its banks last week. Residents reported electricity cuts in several neighborhoods.
Dam capacity raises further concerns
Officials are closely monitoring the Oued Makhazine dam near Ksar El Kebir, which is operating at 146% of capacity after weeks of sustained rainfall. The water ministry warned that additional water releases downstream may be necessary to reduce pressure on the structure.
Nationwide, Morocco’s dam-filling rate has risen sharply to nearly 62%, compared with 27% a year ago. Several major dams are being partially emptied to absorb further inflows.
Calls for disaster designation
Rights groups have called on the government to declare the affected areas disaster-stricken, a move that would allow residents to access insurance coverage for flood-related damage.
The exceptional rainfall has effectively ended a seven-year drought that previously forced Morocco to accelerate investments in desalination infrastructure. While water reserves have recovered rapidly, authorities warn that flood risks remain high as more rain is forecast.