The Regional Vigilance Committee for managing and monitoring flood events in Asfi province held an emergency meeting on October 8, 2026, at the provincial headquarters. The meeting, chaired by the provincial governor, focused on discussing the results of a technical study on protecting the city of Asfi from flood risks. The study, conducted by NOVEC, aimed to identify areas prone to flooding and propose technical solutions to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall.
The technical study diagnosed sources of flood risk and identified areas exposed to flooding. It also proposed solutions and technical measures to reduce the effects of flooding, prioritizing interventions to enhance the city's protection and resilience to exceptional rainfall. The study's findings will inform the development of a comprehensive plan to safeguard the city and its inhabitants.
The meeting also featured a presentation by the Am Al Rabii Watershed Agency on the early warning system, which aims to enhance monitoring, forecasting, and alerting capabilities. The system seeks to improve information exchange and coordination among stakeholders, enabling proactive intervention and rapid response to potential risks. This system is critical in reducing the impact of flooding on communities.
The Regional Multi-Service Company for the Marrakech-Asfi region presented a program for cleaning and maintaining drainage networks and watercourses. The program includes clearing and desilting the Chaaba wadi, which will improve stormwater drainage and reduce the risk of flooding. These measures are essential in enhancing the city's preparedness for the upcoming rainy season.
Several draft agreements related to protecting Asfi from natural disasters were presented during the meeting. These agreements, which include partnerships and co-financing with the Natural Disaster Effects Mitigation Fund, aim to bolster preventive measures and protect the province's population and assets. The agreements will help implement priority interventions to mitigate flood risks.
The Regional Committee approved the technical study's findings and emphasized the need to accelerate the implementation of priority interventions. The committee also stressed the importance of completing urgent works as soon as possible, while intensifying field monitoring and coordination among relevant external services. Local authorities will provide support and accompaniment to ensure a heightened level of vigilance and preparedness.
The emergency meeting demonstrates the Moroccan authorities' commitment to addressing flood risks in Asfi. By implementing the proposed measures, the city will be better equipped to handle heavy rainfall and minimize the impact of flooding on its inhabitants. The authorities' proactive approach will help reduce the risk of flooding and protect the city's infrastructure and population.
Key points
- Moroccan authorities hold emergency meeting to enhance flood protection measures in Asfi ahead of rainy season
- Technical study identifies areas prone to flooding and proposes solutions to mitigate impact of heavy rainfall
- Authorities approve study's findings and emphasize need to accelerate priority interventions to mitigate flood risks