Morocco Braces for Chilly Sunday with Varied Weather Conditions
Get ready for a mixed bag of weather across Morocco this Sunday! While some regions will be basking in relatively mild conditions, others can expect a chilly start and end to the day. The Directorate General of Meteorology (DMN) has issued its forecast, and here’s a friendly rundown of what to expect.
Mountainous Regions to Feel the Chill:
If you’re planning a trip to the Atlas Mountains, the Rif, or the Eastern Highlands, be prepared for cooler temperatures. The DMN predicts relatively cold weather in these areas, particularly during the morning and nighttime hours. Temperatures are expected to dip down to between 2 and 7 degrees Celsius (35-45°F), so pack those warm layers! This aligns with typical winter weather patterns in these higher elevation areas, which often experience significantly colder temperatures than coastal regions. For those unfamiliar, the Atlas Mountains are a vast range spanning Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, known for their diverse landscapes and challenging trekking opportunities.
Coastal Areas: From Fog to Strong Winds:
Along the northern and central Atlantic plains, as well as the northwestern Sahara regions, expect low-hanging clouds and dense fog, especially during the morning and night. This coastal fog, known as advection fog, forms when warm, moist air passes over a cooler surface, like the ocean. Further north in the Eastern region, the forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with a chance of light showers. Meanwhile, the central coast and the southernmost parts of the country can anticipate moderately strong winds, with the possibility of blowing dust in the extreme south. These winds are likely driven by pressure differences between the Atlantic and the Sahara Desert.
Temperature Variations Across the Country:
While the mountains brace for the cold, the south of Morocco and the Souss region will experience milder temperatures, ranging from 13 to 17 degrees Celsius (55-63°F). The rest of the country will fall somewhere in between, with lows between 8 and 14 degrees Celsius (46-57°F). Interestingly, northern Morocco is expected to see a drop in daytime temperatures compared to recent days. This variability highlights the diverse microclimates found within Morocco, influenced by factors like elevation, proximity to the coast, and prevailing wind patterns.
Coastal Waters: From Calm to Rough Seas:
Sea conditions will also vary significantly. The Mediterranean coast can expect slightly rough to rough seas, while the Strait of Gibraltar will be calm to slightly rough. Between Mahdia and Cape Ghir, conditions will be rough to very rough, and this will extend south to Tan-Tan during the night. The remaining coastal areas can expect slightly rough to rough seas. These varying sea states are crucial information for maritime activities, including fishing and shipping.
Stay Prepared and Informed:
This Sunday’s weather in Morocco promises a mix of conditions across the country. Whether you’re planning a mountain hike, a coastal stroll, or simply staying indoors, it’s always a good idea to stay updated on the latest weather information from the DMN. You can find more detailed forecasts and weather warnings on their official website [insert link to DMN website if available]. Stay safe and enjoy your Sunday!
