ALM UNDP

Consistent with global warming trends, observations from Morocco’s National Meteorological Directorate show rising temperatures, less precipitation, and an increase in drought, widening the gap between water supply and demand. Average temperatures are expected to rise between 2 and 5ºC by the end of this century, while rainfall is predicted to decline 20 to 30%.

Morocco’s rural northeast coast, including Nador and Berkane provinces, is increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including sea level rise, storm surges, and coastal flooding. Some areas of the north coast are already eroding at a rate of 1 metre per year and the average global sea level rise (SLR) predicted by the IPCC (up to 59 cm by 2100) will exacerbate erosion. Poverty limits the ability of local residents to cope with these changes. Average farm household incomes in some communities are as low as $540 per year. Remittances from overseas relatives keep many families out of poverty, but do little to create jobs.