Kenzas Blog

Morocco's Coastal Challenges and Its Response to Climate Hazards Morocco's coastal regions, encompassing both the Mediterranean and Atlantic shores, face escalating environmental threats due to climate change. These challenges include rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and the risk of tsunamis, all of which endanger local communities, infrastructure, and economic activities. ( Risks to Morocco's Mediterranean coasts: reality and impacts ) Coastal Erosion and Sea-Level Rise Approximately 60% of Morocco's population resides in coastal cities, making them particularly vulnerable to environmental hazards. Coastal erosion is a significant issue, especially along the Mediterranean shore in northern Morocco, notably in areas like the Marchica Lagoon. Factors such as rising sea levels, urban expansion, and untreated wastewater discharge exacerbate the situation. The World Bank reports that two-thirds of Moroccan beaches are affected by coastal erosion, leading to the loss of l...

Week 10 Morocco experiences several types of extreme weather, and the country has implemented a variety of warning systems and mitigation strategies to protect its population. Here’s a breakdown: Extreme Weather in Morocco: Some extreme weather that Morocco faces are Heat Waves. Morocco, especially inland and southern regions like Marrakech and the Sahara, can face extremely high temperatures in summer, often exceeding 45°C (113°F). Next, Morocco faces Flooding during the heavy seasonal rains, especially in the Atlas Mountains and urban areas, it can often cause flash floods. Dry riverbeds (wadis) can suddenly flood, and poor drainage systems in cities like Casablanca can worsen the impact. Next Droughts long-term drought is a recurring challenge, affecting water supply, agriculture, and food security. This is particularly serious for rural communities dependent on farming. Also some parts of Morocco face Snowstorms and Cold Snaps. In mountainous regions like the High Atlas, heavy sn...

  Morocco is affected by several types of mass movements, primarily due to its diverse topography, geological features, and climatic conditions. The main types of mass movements in Morocco include: 1. Landslides (Glissements de terrain) Common in mountainous regions such as the Rif, High Atlas, and Middle Atlas . Triggered by heavy rainfall, earthquakes, deforestation, and human activities like road construction . Areas with weak geological formations (e.g., clay-rich soils) are particularly prone. 2. Rockfalls (Chutes de roches) Occur in steep, rocky terrains, particularly in the Atlas Mountains and Rif region . Often caused by erosion, freeze-thaw cycles, and seismic activity . Poses risks to roads, villages, and infrastructure in mountainous areas. 3. Mudflows & Debris Flows  Occur during intense rainfall or flash floods , particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Can sweep away roads, houses, and agricultural land. The Ourika Valley disaster in 1995 is a well-known ...

  Volcanoes  Morocco is home to several extinct volcanoes, primarily dating back to the Pleistocene epoch. Notable examples include the Azrou volcanic field and Jbel Tamarrakoit in the Middle Atlas region. These ancient volcanic structures have been dormant for hundreds of thousands of years, with no recorded eruptions in recent geological history.  Due to the long-standing inactivity of these volcanoes, Morocco does not currently implement specific volcanic monitoring or mitigation measures. Instead, the country's focus is on other natural hazards, such as earthquakes, which pose a more immediate risk. The closest active volcanic region to Morocco is the Canary Islands, located off the northwest coast of Africa. While the Canary Islands have experienced volcanic activity in recent times, their distance from the Moroccan mainland means that any direct impact on Morocco would be minimal. In summary, the extinct status of Morocco's volcanoes negates the need for volcanic ...

Week 3 Morocco's seismic activity is primarily influenced by its proximity to the convergent boundary between the African and Eurasian plates. This tectonic interaction leads to significant seismic hazards, especially in the northern regions. Notable earthquakes include the 2004 Al Hoceima event and the 2023 Al Haouz earthquake, which collectively resulted in substantial casualties and infrastructure damage. worldbank.org In response to these risks, Morocco has implemented several measures to mitigate earthquake catastrophes. First the Disaster Risk Management Initiatives: The government has reformed its Fund for the Fight against Natural Catastrophes (FLCN) to focus on proactive disaster risk reduction and preparedness, complementing post-event recovery efforts. documents.worldbank.org. They then put in place Early Warning Systems: Emphasis has been placed on developing early warning systems, community engagement, and financial preparedness to enhance the country's resilience ...

 Morocco Week 2 Morocco is located in the northwestern region of Africa, where it is influenced by the interactions of several tectonic plates. It is relatively close to a convergent boundary between the Eurasian Plate and the African Plate, making it an active location. While Morocco itself is not directly on a major plate boundary, tectonic activity from the convergence has influenced the region, contributing to seismic activity, including earthquakes in northern Morocco, particularly near the Rif Mountains and along the coast. African-Eurasian Plate Boundary: The northern part of Morocco, including the Rif Mountains is heavily affected by the convergent boundary. The convergent boundary is responsible for compressional forces that have created mountain ranges and an active region including the historical Agadir earthquake in 1960 and the most recent shake of 2023 Al Haouz earthquake. Atlas Mountains: The Atlas Mountains run through the central part of Morocco which is not direct...