Starting Wednesday, Morocco will face a significant heatwave that’s expected to linger through Monday, with scorching temperatures sweeping across much of the country. According to an alert issued by the national meteorological agency, the heat will be intensified by the presence of the chergui, a hot, dry wind blowing from the Sahara.
The southern regions will be hit first. On Wednesday, thermometers are forecast to spike between 104 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit in areas such as Zagora, Tata, Assa-Zag, Es-Smara, Boujdour, Aousserd, and Oued Ed-Dahab.
By Thursday, the heat is set to move into more parts of the country. Cities like Taroudant, El Kelaa des Sraghna, Marrakech, Rehamna, Béni Mellal, and Fquih Ben Salah will also see temperatures climb into the same brutal range.
The most intense phase of this heatwave is expected from Friday through Monday, with temperatures ranging from 108 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit in an even broader sweep of provinces, stretching from the north to the center and down to the south. Communities in Chichaoua, Youssoufia, Khemisset, Larache, Ouezzane, Kenitra, Sidi Kacem, Sidi Slimane, and Settat will be among the hardest hit.
Other areas will also feel the heat, though slightly less extreme. Cities such as Berrechid, Essaouira, Khouribga, Safi, Meknes, Fes, and Guelmim are expected to register highs between 100 and 108 degrees.
Meanwhile, some coastal and high-altitude cities will be spared the worst of it. Agadir, Casablanca, Mohammedia, Rabat, El Jadida, as well as Azilal and El Hajeb, are forecast to stay relatively cooler, with temperatures hovering between 91 and 100 degrees.
This prolonged heatwave, combined with dry winds, raises concerns over fire risks, water shortages, and health impacts, particularly in the most vulnerable regions. Authorities are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and keep an eye on weather updates throughout the week.
