Casablanca – Morocco has recorded a major recovery in its water reserves, with dam storage reaching more than11.4 billion cubic meters, corresponding to a filling rate of 68.5% as of February 10, 2026. This represents the highest level recorded since 2018 and a 147% increase compared to the same period last year, when the filling rate stood at just 27.6%. After seven consecutive years of drought, this rebound marks a significant turning point in the country’s water resources management.

The resurgence in dam levels comes after a wet season that has progressively replenished reservoirs across the country. Experts note that this improvement provides critical support not only for urban water supply but also for Morocco’s agricultural sector, which relies heavily on irrigation from these dams. Agriculture accounts for a significant share of water consumption in Morocco, making the recovery of reservoirs vital for crop security, livestock production, and the broader rural economy.

Northern and central-western basins lead the recovery

The northern and central-western basins have been the main beneficiaries of this replenishment. The Sebou basin now exceeds 90% in filling rate, with key dams such as Al Wahda, Idriss I, and Allal El Fassi contributing significantly to water security for both urban centers and agricultural areas. Similarly, the Loukkos basin has reached 93%, with several dams at or near full capacity, while the Bouregreg basin surpasses 92%, securing water supply for the Rabat–Salé–Casablanca corridor.

These northern basins, traditionally among the most productive regions for both agriculture and urban consumption, have regained a level of resilience that had been severely compromised during the drought years. The replenishment ensures that water-dependent sectors in these areas can operate with greater stability in the coming months.

Central and southern regions show progress, though challenges remain

In the central region, the Tensift basin has reached a filling rate of over 82%, a marked improvement in an area previously exposed to chronic water stress. The Oum Er-Rbia basin has also made significant progress, rising to 41.2%, thanks in part to the recovery of major reservoirs such as Bin El Ouidane and Ahmed El Hansali. While these figures are lower than those in the northern basins, they reflect a notable stabilization of water supplies in key agricultural areas.

The eastern Moulouya basin now approaches 56%, and the Souss-Massa basin exceeds 54%, despite high agricultural demand placing pressure on available resources. These improvements indicate a steady recovery, although careful management will be required to prevent overuse in the high-demand growing regions.

In Morocco’s southern and southeastern basins, including Guir-Ziz-Rhéris and Drâa-Oued Noun, water levels remain more modest, at around 60% and 33%, respectively. While these regions continue to face structural aridity, the upward trend in filling rates demonstrates progress in managing water scarcity even in the country’s most vulnerable areas.

Implications for agriculture and water management

The resurgence of Morocco’s dams is not only a hydrological milestone but also a strategic boost for the country’s agricultural sector. Irrigation from these reservoirs underpins staple crop production, horticulture, and livestock activities, providing a buffer against seasonal variability. This is particularly critical following years of drought that severely impacted agricultural output and rural livelihoods.

Authorities emphasize that despite the positive trend, prudent water management remains essential. Ongoing monitoring, efficient irrigation practices, and careful allocation will be necessary to sustain this improvement and ensure that water is available to meet urban, industrial, and agricultural needs in the coming year.

Outlook

With dam levels now at their highest since 2018, Morocco has regained significant flexibility in water management, offering hope for a more stable agricultural season and increased resilience against climate variability. While challenges remain in southern and arid regions, the overall recovery demonstrates the country’s capacity to restore and maintain critical water infrastructure in the face of recurring drought.

The current state of Morocco’s reservoirs underscores the strategic importance of water management as both a national resource and a foundation for economic and agricultural stability. The country’s ability to maintain these gains will be a decisive factor in ensuring long-term food security and sustainable water usage across diverse regions.