Heatwave in Morocco Kills 21 People

A severe heatwave in Morocco has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people in just 24 hours, primarily affecting the elderly and those with chronic illnesses in the city of Beni Mellal, as confirmed by the health ministry. The national meteorology department reported temperatures soaring to 48°C (118°F) across much of the country from July 22 to 24. This heatwave comes amid Morocco's sixth consecutive year of drought, with record high temperatures and significant evaporation impacting the agricultural sector. Water Minister Nizar Baraka noted that water evaporation rates have reached 1.5 million cubic meters per day. Scientists have linked climate change to these increasingly severe weather patterns, including extreme heat events. The government has activated its heatwave emergency response plan, urging citizens to take precautions during peak sun hours.