HIBAPRESS – A. Mahyaoui
In preparation for climate fluctuations and to mitigate flood risks during the 2026-2027 winter season, the governor of Taounate province chaired an initial meeting of the Provincial Early Warning Committee on Monday, October 19, 2026. The meeting was attended by local authorities, representatives of security services, and heads of relevant decentralized services.
This meeting provided an opportunity to assess the readiness of various concerned sectors, review preventive measures taken, and identify additional actions to enhance field interventions and reduce potential damages from heavy rainfall expected in the province in the coming months.
In his speech, the governor emphasized the importance of early mobilization and continuous coordination among all stakeholders, in line with the high royal directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and the Ministry of Interior's guidance to strengthen mechanisms for preventing climate change risks and proactively addressing adverse weather conditions.
The local official stressed that the specific characteristics of Taounate province, including its terrain and significant rainfall over short periods, necessitate a proactive approach focused on monitoring potential risks, developing precise intervention plans, and mobilizing the necessary human and logistical resources to ensure the safety of citizens and the protection of their property.
Field Preparations and Mobilization of Resources
The meeting included technical presentations by the Provincial Director of Equipment, Transport, and Logistics, the Provincial Commander of Civil Protection, and the Provincial Director of the Regional Multipurpose Company of the Fez-Meknes region. These presentations covered the action programs outlined to address the impacts of adverse weather conditions, as well as the human and equipment resources allocated for intervention when needed.
After discussing the various data and proposed measures, it was emphasized that efforts must be intensified to clean rainwater and sewage drainage channels, repair and reinforce protective barriers and structures, and identify flood-prone points and areas to enable early intervention and prevent the exacerbation of situations during exceptional rainfall.
The planned measures also include an inventory of housing units, buildings, and facilities near watercourses, and the preparation of temporary shelter spaces in case of emergencies. Awareness campaigns will also be strengthened to highlight the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, especially in areas where wadis and watercourses may pose a danger to residents.
Protecting Students and Ensuring Continuity of Essential Services
The programmed measures are not limited to flood-related interventions but also extend to ensuring the continuity of essential services. This includes preparations to repair potential breakdowns in water, electricity, and communication networks, as well as taking necessary measures to reduce disruptions that may be caused by difficult weather conditions.
In the same context, it was stressed that officials of school transport associations and drivers must be sensitized to the importance of exercising caution, especially when crossing roads and areas that may be affected by rainfall or rising water levels, to protect the lives of students and ensure their safety.
There was also a call to strengthen the presence of local authorities in the field, monitor residents in risk-prone areas, and be prepared to provide necessary assistance and immediate intervention whenever circumstances require.
Continuous Coordination Pending Expanded Meeting
At the end of the meeting, the governor of Taounate province urged all concerned services and sectors to maintain their mobilization and effective coordination, and to utilize available resources to ensure rapid response and effective interventions, with special attention given to citizens in the most risk-prone areas.
This step is part of the initial preparations for the winter season, pending the expanded meeting of the Early Warning Committee responsible for managing flood risks, scheduled for next November. The aim is to enhance coordination among all stakeholders and update preventive measures according to field data and climate forecasts.
The main challenge in the coming phase is to translate these preparations into practical and tangible actions on the ground, ensuring the reduction of potential damages and the protection of lives and property, especially in areas facing challenges related to rugged terrain and heavy rainfall.
