Schools Closed in Ouarzazate and Tinghir as Severe Weather Threatens Safety
Ouarzazate, Morocco – In response to a severe weather warning issued by the General Directorate of Meteorology, the Regional Vigilance Committee in Ouarzazate has made the difficult decision to suspend classes in all rural schools. This precautionary measure, enacted on Monday, prioritizes the safety of both students and staff in the face of potentially dangerous conditions.
The decision to close schools underscores the very real dangers posed by severe weather events. Across the globe, such events are increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change. The World Meteorological Organization reports that the past decade (2011-2020) was the warmest on record, with extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves becoming more commonplace.
These events can have devastating impacts on communities, disrupting essential services like education and putting lives at risk. In Morocco, for example, heavy rains and flooding in recent years have led to school closures, damage to infrastructure, and displacement of families.
The proactive approach taken by the Ouarzazate authorities reflects a growing global trend towards prioritizing safety and preparedness in the face of climate change. Many countries are now implementing early warning systems, strengthening infrastructure, and developing community-based disaster risk reduction plans.
While these measures are crucial, they also highlight the urgent need for global action to address the root causes of climate change. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through a transition to clean energy sources and sustainable practices is essential to mitigating the risks posed by extreme weather events and ensuring a safe and healthy future for all.
