Morocco is bracing for a powerful late-season winter storm, as the national weather service issued an orange-level warning on Saturday for heavy snowfall and high winds expected to hit several provinces on Sunday, March 23, and Monday, March 24.
According to the General Directorate of Meteorology, the first to be affected will be regions sitting above 1,400 meters in elevation. In areas such as Al Hoceima, Chefchaouen, Boulemane, Ifrane, and Sefrou, snowfall could reach up to 40 centimeters between midnight Sunday and early afternoon Monday.
Further south, provinces at even higher altitudes—above 1,700 meters—will also see significant accumulation. Guercif, Taza, Beni Mellal, Azilal, Khenifra, and Midelt are expected to receive up to 25 centimeters of snow starting Sunday morning and continuing through midday Monday.
The incoming snowstorm will be accompanied by intense winds, which could gust between 70 and 85 kilometers per hour, sweeping across a wide stretch of the country. The eastern and southern regions will bear the brunt, including Taourirt, Guercif, Figuig, Boulemane, Jerada, Oujda-Angad, and Taza. Coastal and desert provinces will also be affected, such as Agadir-Ida-Ou-Tanane, Chtouka-Ait Baha, Tiznit, Inezgane-Ait Melloul, Guelmim, Assa-Zag, Tan-Tan, and Sidi Ifni.
These fierce gusts are expected to stir up dust storms in some areas, significantly reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions—especially along mountain roads and desert highways. Authorities warn that these conditions could disrupt travel and pose serious risks to those on the move.
In light of the severe forecast, the meteorology office is urging residents and travelers to exercise extreme caution. Local officials may impose temporary road closures or carry out emergency measures to ensure public safety.
This sharp return to winter serves as a reminder of how unpredictable the weather can be in the lead-up to spring, when shifting patterns often bring dramatic contrasts. Citizens are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts and to avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas until conditions improve.
