Heatwave Leaves Moroccan Cities Sweltering in Record-Breaking Temperatures

• Morocco’s monthly temperature records have been shattered this month.
• The coastal city of Casablanca hit 39.5C, breaking previous June records.
• Inland cities like Marrakesh and Fez are 8C to 15C above average.
• More than 17 regions of Morocco sweltered under temperatures above 40C.
• Forecasts predict continued extreme heat due to a Saharan thermal depression.

Record-Breaking Temperatures in Morocco

Heatwave continues to torment Moroccan cities, shattering records as temperatures soar into unprecedented territory. The national meteorological office (DGM) disclosed on Sunday that monthly temperature records have not just been met but have been obliterated, with figures sometimes exceeding seasonal averages by a staggering 20 degrees Celsius. Between June 27 and June 28, a severe type of heatwave, termed ‘chegui’, swept across the country, impacting both its intensity and geographical extent, confirmed the DGM in a detailed report shared with AFP.

Widespread Impact Across 17 Regions

The ramifications of this heatwave are extensive, affecting diverse regions across Morocco. Notably, coastal cities such as Casablanca are experiencing unprecedented highs, registering 39.5C (around 103°F) — a new record that surpasses the previous high of 38.6C set in June of 2011. Further up the coast, Larache recorded a peak of 43.8C, just slightly above the prior June record from 2017, while central Morocco’s Ben Guerir has hit a blistering 46.4C, outdoing its own last record by 1.1 degrees. The DGM reported that more than 17 regions have seen temperatures soar above 40C, primarily in Atlantic areas.

Heatwave Expected to Persist in Coming Days

Farther inland, cities like Marrakesh, Fez, Meknes, and Beni Mellal have witnessed temperatures rise between 8C to 15C above norms for this time of year, while Tangier has recorded the least extreme readings amongst them. The DGM warned the forecast remains grim for the next few days, with continuing oppressive heat in the interior regions of Morocco, largely due to a Saharan thermal depression. This intense heat dome over the desert is likely to prolong the suffering and discomfort for residents already grappling with these extreme weather conditions.

In summary, Morocco is currently experiencing a significant heatwave that has shattered several temperature records across the country. The coastal cities, while heavily affected, are not alone in dealing with intolerable heat levels, as many inland regions are also feeling the pressure. Projections indicate that the heat is likely to persist in the days ahead, highlighting the nation’s urgent need to prepare for such extreme weather events.