While El Niño can disrupt global temperature and precipitation patterns, its return does not automatically mean the country will face another drought. For Moroccan agriculture, the key challenge will be the timing and regularity of rainfall, rather than just the total amount. Ibrahim El Anbi, an accredited agricultural expert, noted that the relationship between El Niño and precipitation in Morocco is not direct, as it also depends on conditions in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, and the trajectory of depressions.
He emphasized that regular rainfall is more crucial for crops than high annual accumulation, as concentrated heavy rains followed by long dry spells can negatively impact germination, growth, and yields. The agricultural sector needs to focus on how precipitation will be distributed and when it will occur, rather than simply anticipating rain or drought. Rainfed crops, especially cereals, are most vulnerable to these variations.
Delays in the rainy season or water shortages during critical plant development stages can significantly affect yields. Conversely, very intense rainfall over short periods can lead to floods, soil erosion, and damage to crops and infrastructure. Morocco is continuing investments in seawater desalination, interlinking hydraulic basins, and treated wastewater reuse to reduce reliance on rainfall an
