Morocco’s dam water reserves have reached a filling rate of 28.44%, offering a much-needed respite from the ongoing water scarcity that has plagued the country for nearly six years. This boost comes following a series of favorable weather conditions and rainfall that have contributed to a rise in the total volume of water stored in the nation’s reservoirs, now at 4,790.03 billion cubic meters.
The increase in water levels is seen as a positive development in the fight against severe drought conditions, with several key dams reporting significant improvements in water storage. Notably, Allal El Fassi is now 97.48% full, Garde Sebou stands at 85.97%, Hassan Addakhil at 72.13%, and Mansour Eddahbi at 50.76%, according to local sources. These reservoirs are crucial for both agriculture and the country’s domestic water supply, particularly in regions that have borne the brunt of the drought’s effects.
Morocco has been battling a prolonged drought for nearly six years, with rainfall amounts consistently falling 40% below normal and groundwater resources rapidly depleting. The resulting water scarcity has placed significant strain on agriculture and drinking water supplies, making the recent rise in water reserves a welcome relief for the country’s population.
In response to these challenges, the Moroccan government has introduced a variety of measures aimed at improving water management and alleviating the impacts of the drought. These include the development of desalination plants along the coast to supplement freshwater supplies and the promotion of water-saving practices in agriculture and industry. Authorities have also focused on modernizing irrigation systems and encouraging the use of treated wastewater to reduce pressure on the country’s dwindling freshwater resources.
While the recovery in water storage offers hope, experts warn that Morocco must continue to prioritize sustainable water use and further enhance its resilience to climate change-induced challenges in the years ahead.