Following the severe thunderstorms that affected seventeen provinces and regions in the Kingdom of Morocco, the Ministry of the Interior announced an initial toll of 11 deaths in the provinces of Tata (seven people), Tiznit (two people), and Errachidia (two people, one of whom was a foreigner).
In a press statement this Sunday in Rabat, the spokesperson for the Ministry of the Interior, Rachid El Khalfi, explained that these rains also led to the disappearance of nine people in the provinces of Tata, Errachidia, and Taroudant.
He added that the heavy rains in the region over the past two days represent about half the average annual rainfall in some areas, and in some cases, they have even exceeded the usual annual average. For example, Tata recorded 250 mm, Tinghir 203 mm, Figuig 114 mm, and Ouarzazate 82 mm.
Regarding material losses, the spokesperson provided the following initial report:
- The collapse of 40 houses, of which 24 were completely destroyed.
- Total or partial collapse of four medium-sized infrastructures.
- Damage to 93 road sections, including national, regional, and provincial roads, leading to traffic disruptions. Authorities managed to restore traffic on 53 of these sections.
- Damage to electricity, drinking water, and telecommunication networks.
The Ministry’s spokesperson emphasized that local authorities, in collaboration with the Royal Armed Forces, the Royal Gendarmerie, the National Security, the Auxiliary Forces, Civil Protection, and relevant technical departments, increased their level of preparedness from the first moments of the crisis, mobilizing all necessary human and logistical resources for rapid intervention and providing support to affected populations.
He added that efforts are ongoing to break the isolation of affected areas, restore road, electricity, and drinking water networks, as well as telecommunication services.
He pointed out that these efforts are part of a comprehensive plan that adopts a proactive approach, which has been implemented by the authorities since August 29, 2024, by activating the work of vigilance committees and raising awareness among local residents, in addition to mobilizing all necessary resources in areas expected to be affected.
He concluded by stressing that the Ministry of the Interior urges residents and visitors in affected areas to exercise maximum caution and avoid any actions that may endanger their lives, given the continued instability of the weather. He also emphasized the importance of following the guidelines and instructions of the authorities to ensure their safety.