Indoor Air Quality Alert: Morocco Flooding

What is the location of the flooding?

As of February 3, 2026, the flooding event affecting Morocco is centered around the northwestern city of Ksar el-Kebir. The flooding is driven by weeks of heavy rainfall and rising water levels in the Loukkos River. Additional contributing factors include water releases from the Oued Makhazine dam, which has reached full capacity (1).

Flood impacts are concentrated in low-lying neighborhoods along the Loukkos River basin, with nearby rivers such as Oued Ouargha and Sebou River also experiencing elevated levels that pose risks to communities in surrounding provinces (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The following areas have been directly impacted by flooding or severe weather conditions:

• Al Hoceima
• Chefchaouen
• Fahs Anjra
• Ksar el-Kebir
• Larache
• Ouezzane
• Rabat
• Safi
• Sidi Kacem
• Tanger Assilah
• Tetouan
• Taounate
• Kenitra

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of February 3, 2026, the flooding in northern Morocco remains uncontrolled due to persistent rainfall, rising river levels, and the overflow of the Loukkos River. Water releases from the Oued Makhazine dam have intensified downstream flooding, and emergency teams continue reinforcing riverbanks with sandbags and temporary barriers (3).

Authorities report that while some waters have begun to recede in isolated areas, the situation remains unstable, with ongoing risks of further inundation (4).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

More than 50,000 residents have been evacuated from Ksar el-Kebir alone, with entry into the city restricted and electricity cut in certain neighborhoods. Schools in the affected area have been ordered to remain closed until at least February 7 (5).

Additional alerts include red-level weather warnings issued for several northern provinces due to intense rainfall, along with evacuation orders in Sidi Kacem as the Sebou River continues to rise. Road safety advisories also urge motorists to avoid flood-prone areas (6).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

• Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
• Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
• If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
• Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
• Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
• Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
• If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.