Morocco Dam Levels Rise: Reservoirs Up 6.6% in One Week

Moroccan dam levels continue to rise, reaching 10.934 million cubic metres (Mm³) as of February 7th, an increase of 647 Mm³ in just one week. The national fill rate has risen from 61.3% to 65.2% of a total capacity of approximately 16.762 Mm³.

Reservoir Increases

Several major dams have seen significant increases in their reserves. Idriss Ier rose from 736 to 926 Mm³, while Bin El Ouidane increased from 514 to 619 Mm³. Notable gains were also recorded at Dar Khrofa, increasing from 286 to 413 Mm³, and Ahmed El Hansali, rising from 446 to 538 Mm³.

Al Massira’s volume climbed from 395 to 453 Mm³. More moderate increases were observed at Hassan II, moving from 103 to 122 Mm³, and Mansour Dahbi, which saw reserves increase from 153 to 164 Mm³.

Did You Know? The Oued El Makhazine dam exceeded its normal capacity on January 6, 2026, with water levels four metres above the historical record since its operation began in 1972.

Conversely, some dams experienced slight declines during the period. Al Wahda decreased from 3.204 to 3.122 Mm³, and Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah fell from 947 to 916 Mm³, adjustments attributed to operational factors.

Managing Rising Levels

Hydrologist Amine Benjelloun explained that the accelerating increase in stored volumes is changing the focus of dam management. The goal is now to manage both inflows and optimize stock levels.

As water levels rise rapidly, management shifts from maximizing storage to maintaining sufficient maneuvering room to absorb sudden water arrivals, secure structures, and prevent emergency releases. As the system “fills,” management becomes more refined and proactive.

Expert Insight: The current situation requires a delicate balance between maximizing water storage and maintaining the capacity to handle unexpected surges in water levels, highlighting the complex challenges of water resource management.

Preventative releases have been prioritized at Al Wahda and Oued El Makhazine to preserve absorption capacity within the reservoirs, ensuring they can accommodate potential exceptional inflows without exceeding operational thresholds. These releases also help regulate downstream flows by evacuating water gradually, avoiding the need for massive, emergency releases.

On February 4th alone, Al Wahda received 225 Mm³. Simultaneously, daily releases of approximately 190 Mm³ have been ongoing to maintain sufficient storage margin.

At Oued El Makhazine, the situation is even more critical, with the dam exceeding its operational references. Between September 1st, 2025, and February 4th, 2026, inflows reached 972.9 Mm³, with 716.8 Mm³ arriving in the last two weeks alone – representing 73.68% of the total. The stock reached 988 Mm³, with a fill rate of 146.85%. Cumulative releases totaled 372.9 Mm³ in response.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current national dam fill rate?

As of February 7th, the national dam fill rate is 65.2%, up from 61.3% on January 31st.

Which dam saw the largest increase in reserves?

Idriss Ier experienced one of the largest increases, rising from 736 Mm³ to 926 Mm³.

Why are some dams releasing water despite low levels?

Dams like Al Wahda and Oued El Makhazine are releasing water to maintain storage capacity and prevent emergency releases due to high inflows.

As water resources are carefully managed amidst rising levels, what long-term strategies might be implemented to ensure sustainable water security for Morocco?