The Beni Mellal Regional Hospital Center in central Morocco has reported 21 deaths attributed to the ongoing heat wave.

The Moroccan Health Ministry revealed that 17 of the 21 individuals who succumbed to the recent heat wave were patients already receiving treatment in hospitals.

Most of the deceased were elderly or had pre-existing health conditions, and the extreme heat aggravated their illnesses, leading to their deaths.

To address the situation, the Health Ministry has announced plans for “urgent measures to reduce the effects of the heat wave on public health.”

These actions are intended to mitigate the immediate health risks associated with the extreme temperatures.

The Moroccan Meteorological Directorate issued a warning on Sunday, predicting temperatures could rise to 46°C (114.8°F) in some areas by Wednesday.

Residents have been advised to take precautions to safeguard themselves from the severe heat.

In recent years, Morocco has been facing progressively hotter summer temperatures, despite its typically Mediterranean climate.

These rising temperatures have had serious consequences for public health and safety.

The extreme heat has also led to a surge in forest fires throughout the country, compounding the challenges Morocco faces.

The combined effects of soaring temperatures and fires create additional difficulties for the nation.

The ministry further explained that shifts have been activated in healthcare facilities across regions experiencing high temperatures.