Heatwave in Morocco Claims 21 Lives in Beni Mellal
A severe heatwave in Morocco has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people over a 24-hour period in the central city of Beni Mellal, according to the health ministry. Temperatures soared up to 48 degrees Celsius from Monday to Wednesday, worsening the conditions of those with chronic illnesses and the elderly. This marks the sixth consecutive year of drought and record heat for Morocco, threatening its agricultural sector due to lowered reservoir levels and increased water evaporation.
A severe heatwave in Morocco has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people over a 24-hour period in the central city of Beni Mellal, according to the health ministry.
From Monday to Wednesday, temperatures soared up to 48 degrees Celsius in various parts of the country.
The regional health directorate reported that most victims were elderly or suffered from chronic illnesses, and the high temperatures worsened their conditions.
This event marks Morocco’s sixth consecutive year of drought and record heat, with January being the hottest month since 1940, as recorded by the meteorology department.
The ongoing drought and high temperatures are threatening the country’s agricultural sector by lowering reservoir levels and increasing water evaporation.
Morocco’s highest recorded temperature was 50.4°C in Agadir last August.