Morocco heatwave raises wildfire risk in several provinces

The National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) has warned of a renewed risk of wildfires in forested areas between May 26 and 29, 2026, as Morocco experiences a heatwave expected to push temperatures as high as 45°C in some regions.

According to a risk map released by the agency, ANEF identified an extreme wildfire risk in the provinces of Kénitra, Khémisset, Rabat, Salé, Skhirate and Témara.

The risk level is considered high in the provinces of Chefchaouen, Fahs-Anjra, Tangier, Ifrane, Taounate, Essaouira and Agadir, while a moderate risk was recorded in Larache, Ouezzane, Tetouan, M'Diq and Taza.

In this context, ANEF said it is working to «anticipate the issue of forest fires in Morocco» through «scientific prediction models» and mapping tools that «accurately identify risk areas across the national territory».

The agency explained that its analysis relies in particular on «forest types and their levels of combustibility and flammability», as well as «topo-climatic parameters».

Given the heightened risk, ANEF urged residents, holidaymakers, visitors and people working in forest areas to remain vigilant. It also called on the public to «immediately alert local authorities if they notice smoke or suspicious behavior».