Rare Downpour Revitalizes Morocco’s Dry Southeast Desert
Morocco’s arid southeast has experienced a rare downpour that has brought life back to its lakes and ponds, sparking joy among locals and tourists alike.
In the heart of Morocco’s southeastern desert, an extraordinary event has unfolded. A rare downpour has transformed the once-parched golden dunes, filling lakes and ponds with water and bringing the area back to life.
A Welcome Gift from the Heavens
In Merzouga, a scenic tourist town nestled 600 kilometers southeast of Rabat, the rain has left a lasting impact. "We’re incredibly happy about the recent rains," said Youssef Ait Chiga, a local tour guide leading a group of German tourists to Yasmina Lake nestled amidst Merzouga’s dunes.
"Locals and tourists alike are eager to witness this unexpected transformation," said Khalid Skandouli, another tour guide. Laetitia Chevallier, a French tourist, was overwhelmed by the sight. "The desert became green again, the animals have food again, and the plants and palm trees came back to life," she said.
The basin had been barren for nearly 20 years, but recent rains have changed that. Experts believe that last year’s drought, triggered by a 48 percent drop in rainfall (General Directorate of Meteorology), is beginning to alleviate.
Torrential Rains and Their Impact
Last month, the southern parts of Morocco were hit by torrential rains, resulting in several dead старие, according to authorities. This is not the only instance of intense precipitation this year; neighboring Algeria also experienced similar rain and flooding, causing six fatalities.
North African countries are among the world’s most water-stressed, with frequent droughts affecting a significant portion of their population. Morocco’s Meteorological Agency described the recent heavy rains as "exceptional," pinning it on an unusual shift of the intertropical convergence zone.
Climate Change and Future Implications
Climate scientist Fatima Driouech said, "Everything suggests that this is a sign of [climate change]." Wetter springs are becoming increasingly common as the intertropical convergence zone shifts further north. While the rains have provided temporary relief, experts caution that lasting change will require sustained rainfall over a longer period.
Jean Marc Berhocoirigoin, a 68-year-old French tourist, was taken aback by the sight of Yasmina Lake replenished. "I felt like a kid on Christmas morning," he said. The rest of the country is still grappling with drought, now in its sixth consecutive year.
Call to Action
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This picture shows lake Erg Znaigui, a seasonal lake in the village of Merzouga in the Sahara desert in southeastern Morocco on October 20, 2024.