Sahara Desert & Rain

( GS-I: Geography)

After an unusual downpour, parts of the Sahara Desert were transformed as water formed blue lagoons amidst palm trees and sand dunes, bringing life to one of the driest places on Earth. Southeastern Morocco, known for its arid climate, received more rainfall than it had seen in decades.

In areas like Tata and Tagounite, rainfall exceeded annual averages within days, with one region receiving 100 millimeters in just 24 hours.

The heavy rains filled long-dry lake beds, including Lake Iriqui, which had been parched for 50 years.

Despite the water's benefit to groundwater reservoirs, it also caused damage, leaving behind loss of life and ruined crops.

Government relief efforts are now underway to aid the affected areas.

About

Morocco, a country located in North Africa, shares a border with the vast Sahara Desert. This desert, the largest hot desert in the world, stretches across several countries, including Morocco.

Morocco and the Sahara Desert:

The Sahara Desert occupies a significant portion of Morocco's southeastern region.

The country's landscape varies from coastal plains to mountainous regions, eventually transitioning into the arid desert.

The Sahara Desert is known for its extreme temperatures, with hot days and cold nights. Morocco's climate is influenced by both the desert and the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in diverse weather patterns across the country.

The Sahara Desert is home to a variety of adapted wildlife, including camels, gazelles, fennec foxes, and various reptiles.