Moroccan military units have mobilized to evacuate over 20,000 residents from flood-stricken areas in the country's northwest, where relentless rainfall since late January 2026 has caused the Loukkos and Sebou rivers to overflow their banks. The operation marks one of the largest disaster responses in recent years as entire neighborhoods in Ksar el-Kebir remain submerged.
Emergency Response in Northwest Morocco
State television showed army personnel using amphibious vehicles to reach stranded families in Ksar el-Kebir, located 190 km north of Rabat. Authorities have established temporary shelters and distributed sandbags to protect critical infrastructure as water levels gradually recede.
Long-Term Implications of Rainfall
While the floods caused widespread disruption, officials note the precipitation has ended a seven-year drought cycle. Dam reservoirs across Morocco now average 60% capacity, with several key facilities reaching full storage – a significant improvement from 2025's critical water shortages that prompted massive investments in desalination infrastructure.
Schools in Ksar el-Kebir will remain closed through February 7 as crews assess structural safety, while agricultural communities downstream monitor river levels for potential irrigation benefits later this year.
