Morocco evacuates over 100,000 people from 4 provinces after floods

RABAT, Morocco

Morocco evacuated more than 100,000 people from four provinces after flash floods swept several areas, the Interior Ministry said Wednesday.

Authorities carried out a phased evacuation of residents from multiple municipalities based on risk levels and expected damage while providing transportation for those affected, the ministry said in a statement.

As of Wednesday morning, a total of 108,423 people have been evacuated across four provinces, it added.

Heavy rainfall in recent days caused flooding in several northern regions, prompting ongoing evacuation and rescue operations.

The ministry said about 81,709 people were evacuated in Larache province, mainly in the city of Ksar el-Kebir, while 9,728 were evacuated in Sidi Kacem province, 2,853 in Sidi Slimane province and 14,133 in Kenitra province.

Authorities set up emergency shelters and reception centers and provided essential assistance to those affected by the floods, the ministry said, adding that the measures aim to reduce the impact of the disaster and ensure public safety.

Earlier Wednesday, the Water Ministry said flash floods were recorded on the outskirts of Guercif in eastern Morocco after water levels rose in Mason Valley.

Authorities also reported disruptions to major roads in several provinces due to flooding, including routes linking Tangier and Tetouan, as well as roads in Larache, Kenitra, Sidi Kacem and Sidi Slimane.

On Tuesday, Ksar el-Kebir Mayor Mohammed Al-Simo said authorities decided to evacuate the entire city overnight as a precaution against flooding, citing water and power outages and the need to prevent casualties, local media reported. Local outlets said the city has a population of about 120,000.

On Monday, Morocco’s meteorological service warned of a low-pressure system bringing heavy rainfall of up to 150 millimeters in several regions.

*Writing by Mohammad Sio in Istanbul