- Morocco experienced its hottest year on record in 2023, with temperatures exceeding 50°C in Agadir.
- Severe drought has led to a dramatic drop in water reserves and agricultural production.
- Economic impacts are severe, with potential annual losses of up to 5% of GDP for affected African nations.
In 2023, Morocco saw unprecedented heat, with Agadir recording a record-breaking temperature of 50.4°C. This extreme heat, coupled with persistent drought, has severely affected the country’s water supply and agricultural productivity.
The broader impact of these climate events is significant, with cereal production plummeting and the economic consequences potentially affecting up to 5% of GDP in some African countries.
Unprecedented Heat and Drought Devastate Morocco in 2023
Morocco has endured its hottest year on record in 2023, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels. The coastal city of Agadir reached a staggering 50.4°C, significantly above historical averages. This extreme heat has been a key factor in the severe drought conditions affecting the country.
The drought has led to a critical reduction in water reserves, with the Al Massira dam’s capacity plummeting from 99% in 2013 to just 6% this year. This shortage of water has severely impacted agriculture, resulting in a 30% decline in cereal production and placing additional strain on the country’s water systems.
Economic implications are profound, with climate-related disasters potentially costing African nations between 2% and 5% of their GDP annually. The persistent drought and extreme weather conditions contribute to a broader pattern of severe climate anomalies affecting the region.
The World Meteorological Organization emphasizes the urgent need for climate action and the implementation of early warning systems to protect vulnerable populations. Without these measures, the impact of such extreme weather events is likely to worsen in the coming years.
The severe heat and drought of 2023 have placed Morocco in a challenging situation, underscoring the urgent need for climate action to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather and safeguard resources and livelihoods.
Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the WMO, emphasized the rapid warming trend in Africa and the urgent need for climate action,
