Snowfall Expected in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains
Get ready for a winter wonderland! The High Atlas Mountains of Morocco are bracing for a fresh blanket of snow, with forecasts predicting snowfall above 2200 meters. This news comes as a welcome change for skiers, snowboarders, and anyone who enjoys the magic of a snowy landscape. The Directorate General of Meteorology (DMN) issued the forecast, anticipating the snowfall to begin soon.
This isn’t just a fleeting flurry either. The DMN predicts scattered showers across the High Atlas range, with the potential for light rain extending to the central Atlantic plains. Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air, the sun glinting off freshly fallen snow – a truly breathtaking scene. This snowfall is a vital source of water for the region, contributing to the rivers and aquifers that sustain life downstream. The High Atlas Mountains play a crucial role in Morocco’s water cycle, and this snowfall is a welcome boost to the country’s water resources. For more information on the importance of mountain snowpack, check out resources like the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) [link to relevant NSIDC page if available].
But the weather story doesn’t end with snow. Fog is expected to roll in during the mornings and evenings across western parts of the Sahara, northern eastern regions, and the Atlantic plains. While this might create some travel challenges, it also adds a touch of mystique to the already stunning landscapes. Elsewhere, temperatures are expected to remain relatively cool, with localized frost anticipated in the mornings and evenings across the Atlas Mountains, rural areas, southeastern slopes, and eastern parts of the country.
Further south, the Anti-Atlas Mountains and northern Sahara regions can expect some sandstorms, while the Tangier-Mediterranean region and southern Anti-Atlas will experience moderately strong winds. These diverse weather patterns highlight the dynamic climate of Morocco, influenced by both its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the vast Sahara Desert.
So, what can you expect temperature-wise? Lows will range between -3°C and 4°C in the High and Middle Atlas Mountains, their eastern slopes, and the eastern high plateaus. Meanwhile, coastal areas, the southern regions, and the Tangier area will enjoy milder temperatures between 9°C and 16°C. The rest of the country will fall somewhere in between, with lows between 4°C and 11°C. Daytime temperatures are expected to rise slightly in the south, while the rest of the country will see a slight dip.
let’s talk about the sea. The Mediterranean coast can expect slightly rough to rough seas, while the Strait of Gibraltar will be rough. Between Tangier and Asilah, conditions will be rough to very rough, calming down to slightly rough to rough between Asilah and Tan-Tan. South of Tan-Tan, the sea will be calm to slightly rough. This information is crucial for anyone planning coastal activities or sea travel.
Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy escape in the High Atlas or exploring the diverse landscapes of Morocco, be sure to check the latest weather updates from the DMN [link to DMN website if available] before you go. Stay safe and enjoy the beauty of this incredible country!
