UN announces El Niño intensification between July and September
via Le Matin3 min read
The World Meteorological Organization WMO announced that El Niño conditions have emerged in the tropical Pacific and are expected to strengthen rapidly in the coming months, increasing the likelihood of heatwaves, drought, heavy rainfall, and other extreme weather events globally. The WMO's monthly seasonal climate bulletin indicates a rapid progression towards a "high intensity" El Niño episode between July and September, corresponding to level 3 on a 4-level scale. This update follows a June 2 announcement by the WMO regarding the imminent episode, and confirmation on June 11 by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOAA that the phenomenon began in May, with a peak expected at year-end. El Niño, a natural climate phenomenon occurring every two to seven years and lasting nine to twelve months, warms water temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific, altering global wind, pressure, and rainfall patterns. It exerts a stronger influence on global temperatures in the year following its onset. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo stated that El Niño is already present and will intensify rapidly, increasing probabilities of drought, heavy rainfall, and risks of terrestrial and marine heatwaves worldwide. The last El Niño episode in 2023 and 2024 contributed to those years being the two hottest on record. Peruvian authorities have declared a state of emergency in 800 municipalities due to the imminent danger of heavy rains linked to El Niño. Global f
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Tesla has expanded its presence in the Moroccan market by introducing the Performance versions of its Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, now available for order. This follows the brand's official entry into Morocco with a Casablanca location and the initial launch of the Model 3 and Model Y. Concurrently, Tesla is opening a new pop-up store in Marrakech at the Mövenpick Hotel, starting July 13, 2026. This new location will allow visitors to explore the range and test drive the new Model Y Performance. The Model 3 Performance boasts an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds, a top speed of 262 km/h, and a WLTP range of 561 km. Enhancements include a revised chassis, adaptive suspension, and a Track Mode for fine-tuning vehicle behavior. Distinctive features comprise specific bumpers, a carbon fiber spoiler, 20-inch forged wheels, and red caliper brakes. The interior offers heated and ventilated sport seats. The Model 3 Performance starts at 599,990 DH. Similarly, the Model Y Performance accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, reaches a top speed of 250 km/h, and has a WLTP range of 580 km. It features adaptive suspension, configurable driving modes, 21-inch forged wheels, Pirelli P Zero tires developed for Tesla, and a carbon fiber spoiler. The SUV also includes more supportive heated and ventilated sport seats. Pricing for the Model Y Performance begins at 649,990 DH. First deliveries for both Model 3 Performance and Model Y Performance are anticipated in August 2026.
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Morocco's trade deficit increased by 20.8% to 159.07 billion dirhams by the end of May 2026, up from 131.71 billion dirhams a year prior, according to the Office des Changes. This widening deficit is attributed to imports growing faster than exports, leading to a 3.2-point decrease in the import coverage rate, from 60.3% to 57.1%. Merchandise imports reached 370.49 billion dirhams, an 11.8% increase, or 39.043 billion dirhams more than the same period in 2025. This rise was primarily driven by a 18.7% increase in finished equipment products, including aircraft and other aerial or spatial vehicles, parts, and utility vehicles. The energy bill also saw a significant 20.7% increase, mainly due to higher purchases of diesel, fuel oils, and petroleum oils and lubricants. Raw product imports rose by 42.5%, largely due to increased imports of crude and unrefined sulfur and scrap iron, waste, and other ores, though crude or refined olive oil purchases decreased. Exports also grew, reaching 211.41 billion dirhams by the end of May 2026, a 5.8% increase from 199.73 billion dirhams a year earlier. The automotive sector remained the primary driver, with exports increasing by 15.9%, particularly in car manufacturing and wiring. Aeronautical exports also saw a 14.2% rise, mainly from the assembly segment. In contrast, phosphate and derivative exports declined by 11.2%, primarily due to reduced sales of natural and chemical fertilizers and phosphates. Despite the trade deficit, other extern