Current Weather in Ouarzazate

The climate awareness and cultural background in Morocco are strongly influenced by its arid climate, Mediterranean climate, and the presence of the Sahara Desert. A deep understanding and adaptation to climate can be seen in people's lives, beliefs, ingenuity in food, clothing, and shelter, as well as in festivals and tourism.

Climate and Wisdom of Living

Traditional Architecture and Heat Mitigation

• Traditional Moroccan architecture (riad, kasbah) utilizes thick earthen walls and courtyards for natural cooling effects.
• To avoid daytime heat increases, window placement and ventilation strategies are also implemented.

Daily Life and Time Management

• During the intensely hot summer months, a lifestyle of limiting daytime activities and shifting them to morning and evening has been established.
• The month of fasting, Ramadan, aligns with this climatic rhythm, leading to a lifestyle centered around activities after sunset.

Cultural Responses to Wind and Dryness

Adaptation to the Sahara Wind "Sirocco"

• The hot, dry wind "Sirocco" blowing from the Sahara Desert impacts health and crops, thus emphasizing the need for health management and consideration of daily rhythms.
• In some regions, there are traditions of using windbreak cloths or scarves during the dry season.

The Value of Water Resources and Culture of Sharing

• In areas with low precipitation, a spirit of consideration for water usage and sharing has taken root, alongside traditional water distribution methods (qanats).
• Public water sources (fountains) are also symbols of community.

The Relationship Between Events and Climate

Coordination of Islamic and Solar Calendars

• In Morocco, holidays based on the Islamic calendar (Hijri calendar) are central, shifting annually, thereby changing their relationship with the climate over the years.
• Accordingly, culinary practices, clothing, and ritual adjustments are made.

Seasonal Feel of Agricultural and Harvest Festivals

• Regional events that correspond to the harvest of olives, dates, and argan are held across the country, deeply tied to the arrival of rainy and dry seasons.

Modern Cities and Changes in Weather Awareness

Urbanization and the Development of Air Conditioning Culture

• In urban areas like Marrakech and Casablanca, the use of air conditioning as a climate response is becoming common.
• The gap between traditional lifestyles and increased energy demand presents challenges.

Awareness of Response to Climate Change and Challenges

• In recent years, changes in precipitation patterns and frequent droughts have raised concerns about instability in agriculture and water for living.
• The government and communities are promoting climate education and sustainable agricultural practices.

Summary

Morocco’s climate awareness is shaped by the wisdom and adaptability of its people living between the desert and the Mediterranean, the integration of faith, and respect for nature. Climate not only constrains life but also acts as a background that enriches culture.