Morocco is set to experience snowfall in several provinces, including those affected by a recent earthquake. An orange weather alert forecasts 5 to 15 centimeters of snow, which further complicates the already challenging living conditions for many, especially in Al Haouz where reconstruction efforts are ongoing following the disaster that caused significant mortality and displacement. The government is providing financial aid to support recovery efforts.
Rabat is bracing for continued snowfall across several Moroccan provinces, particularly in Al Haouz, a region recently affected by a significant earthquake in September 2023. An orange weather alert has been issued by Morocco’s General Directorate of Meteorology, warning of accumulations ranging from 5 to 15 centimeters of snow at elevations above 1,800 meters on the upcoming Monday and Tuesday.
Provinces such as Azilal, Beni Mellal, Midelt, Tinghir, Ouarzazate, and Al Haouz are anticipated to receive snowfall between 10 to 15 centimeters, whereas Ifrane, Boulemane, Taroudant, and Chichaoua are expected to see 5 to 10 centimeters. These weather conditions exacerbate the difficulties faced by many residents, particularly in Al Haouz, who are already struggling amid severe winter conditions.
Viral videos have emerged, capturing the plight of individuals in Al Haouz as they experience heavy snowfalls that engulf temporary shelters designed for those displaced by last year’s earthquake that resulted in approximately 3,000 fatalities, with thousands more injured and many homes destroyed or rendered uninhabitable.
In light of the disaster, the Moroccan government has established a dedicated fund, supported by Moroccan citizens, companies, and various donors, to address the immediate needs arising from the earthquake’s aftermath. The government announced that 56,000 families affected by the Al Haouz earthquake have received financial assistance aimed at reconstructing and rehabilitating their residences.
According to government officials, reconstruction efforts have reached a completion rate of 95%, with a total financial allocation approaching MAD 1.4 billion. Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch confirmed that the number of construction permits issued to eligible families has surpassed 53,000, encompassing 90% of those surveyed in the affected provinces, including Al Haouz, Chichaoua, Marrakech, Taroudant, Azilal, and Ouarzazate.
In summary, Morocco is facing challenging winter weather conditions that are particularly severe in the earthquake-impacted province of Al Haouz. The government is actively addressing the needs of those affected by the disaster, having allocated substantial resources to support reconstruction efforts. The combination of snowfall and ongoing hardships highlights the urgent need for continued assistance to affected communities as they recover from the recent crisis.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
