The regional authorities in the city of Larache raised the maximum alert level in the city of Ksar El Kebir on Wednesday, January 28, due to the rising water level of the Loukkos River. This was a result of heavy rainfall in the northwestern region of the Kingdom of Morocco.
The regional authorities increased the maximum alert level for various local services, authorities, security agencies, the Loukkos Water Basin Agency, the regional multi-service company, and the provincial directorate for equipment and water. This included the local commune of Ksar El Kebir and some related services. This was part of monitoring the status of areas at risk of flooding due to the discharge of water from the Al Makhazane Dam in recent days.
The local and regional authorities, along with other stakeholders, organized a comprehensive mobilization of all human and logistical resources to address any possible emergency that may result from an anticipated flood threatening the city of Ksar El Kebir. They conducted inspection tours and activated various interventions at sensitive points.
As part of the precautionary measures taken, a proactive plan was implemented by placing sand barriers near homes adjacent to the banks of the Loukkos River. This precautionary measure aims to preserve lives, protect property, and ensure the safety and security of citizens, amid the exceptional weather fluctuations experienced by the city and its surroundings.
Additionally, the regional authorities urged all concerned parties to embody a spirit of cooperation and responsibility, and to remain vigilant and cautious until these exceptional weather conditions are surpassed.
The director of the Loukkos Water Basin Agency, Mohamed Abdullah Zwenni, confirmed that the Larache region experienced significant rainfall exceeding a cumulative average of 600 mm since September until today. This resulted in significant water inflows that allowed the Al Makhazane Dam to reach 100 percent capacity.
Zwenni explained that in the context of managing the dam’s reservoir, particularly with the expected exceptional rains, programming of water releases is underway to lower its reservoir capacity and enable it to receive additional water resources.
The same official added that the coordination of these releases is being conducted within a vigilance committee currently implementing accompanying measures in the city of Ksar El Kebir. This aims to reduce flooding and protect the population while raising awareness of the risks that may arise.
He added that to address this issue, the company mobilized all capabilities and logistical means to support local authorities in ensuring the safety of citizens and their properties.
He highlighted that due to the exceptional rains that fell in recent days, the regional company has mobilized additional resources and equipment to support local and regional teams, along with mobilizing contracting companies to equip some flood-prone areas with pumps to prevent wastewater from flowing back into homes.
Zaïm urged citizens to avoid areas near the valleys and to communicate with the company regarding any disruptions that may affect water, electricity, and sewage networks for timely intervention and repairs.
