Heavy rainfall caused rivers in northern Morocco to overflow, leading to significant flooding in various cities that had previously experienced years of drought.
For years, drought had left the plains of northern Morocco dry and fertile, fostering agricultural expansion and rural housing near riverbanks. Residents believed the rivers to be manageable, assuming that seasonal floods were a thing of the past. However, a significant change in rainfall patterns this winter resulted in unprecedented heavy rains, causing river levels to rise quickly and reclaim areas that had been dry for years.
Recent satellite images reveal not only the extent of the destruction caused by flooding in northern Morocco but also signify a deeper issue: the rivers are returning to their natural courses in the flat plains. Comparisons between satellite images taken on January 12, 2026, and February 16, 2026, show a remarkable expansion of water coverage in at least 13 towns and villages, with water levels at 11 dams rising dangerously high. This indicates a significant shift in the hydrological balance of the area, demonstrating how nature is reclaiming its territory after a prolonged period of alteration by human activity.
The implications of this flooding are severe for the local communities, as it challenges the agricultural advancements made during years of dry conditions. As families face the loss of their homes and livelihoods, the flood serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of climate patterns and the lasting impact they have on both human settlements and natural landscapes. The resilience of the affected communities will now be tested as they navigate the aftermath of this natural disaster and seek to adapt in the face of changing environmental conditions.
