Heatwave Leaves Moroccan Cities Sweltering in Record-breaking Temperatures

• Morocco faces unprecedented heatwave with record temperatures.
• Casablanca recorded a high of 39.5 degrees Celsius, breaking its own record.
• Ben Guerir hits staggering 46.4 degrees, surpassing previous highs.
• Coastal cities like Essaouira see temperatures 10 to 20 degrees above average.
• Forecasts indicate continued heat from a Saharan thermal depression.

Moroccan Cities Experience Unprecedented Heatwave

August 2023 marked a rather extreme period for weather in Morocco, where the heatwave has brought shocking temperature records. The national meteorological office, known as the DGM, reported that temperatures in parts of the country have exceeded seasonal norms by a staggering 20 degrees Celsius. This dramatic shift has particularly affected the Atlantic plains and the interior plateaus, throwing summer plans into disarray for many residents and visitors alike.

Record Highs Observed in Various Regions

One of the most notable areas impacted has been the coastal city of Casablanca, which reported a temperature spike of 39.5 degrees Celsius, surpassing its previous record of 38.6 degrees set back in June 2011. To the north, in Larache, a blistering 43.8 degrees was recorded, just a smidge above the previous June high from 2017. Central Morocco has not been spared either, as Ben Guerir saw temperatures climb to a staggering 46.4 degrees, outpacing its own record by 1.1 degrees, according to the DGM.

Saharan Depression Keeps Conditions Unbearable

With the heatwave extending to at least 17 regions across the kingdom, the coastal areas particularly bore the brunt of this scorching phenomenon. Cities like Essaouira recorded temperatures soaring 10 to 20 degrees above their typical June averages. Inland towns such as Marrakesh, Fez, and Beni Mellal also registered significant deviations from the norm, with temperature anomalies ranging from 8 to 15 degrees. The DGM warns that forecasts suggest no relief in sight. A Saharan thermal depression is set to maintain these oppressive temperatures across the interior as the heatwave continues to grip the nation.

The recent heatwave has caused remarkable temperature spikes across Morocco, breaking records in multiple cities. With continuous forecasts indicating that this intense heat will persist, the residents must brace themselves for further extreme conditions. Authorities are watching closely as this unprecedented weather pattern unfolds and affects daily life in the country.