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This article presents an analysis of the earthquake in Al Hoceima City through the combination of land use and seismic hazards. This study is based on a probabilistic analysis of the seismic hazard performed following an attenuation to predict the maximum ground acceleration at each square kilometer. The land use of the area was estimated using GIS tools with the Gaussian maximum likelihood integrated supervised analysis method on remote sensing data processed from Landsat images 8, and the distribution of the values of PGA (Peak Ground Acceleration) in Al Hoceima. The numerical values ranging from this latter are around between 0.268g and 0.275g within the city, The maximum values indicate that the acceleration towards the north is approaching the seismic source of the Alboran Sea, which is regarded as a principal source generating several seismic events. The main global objective of this paper is to assess seismic hazard risk by combining seismic hazards (PGA) and land use maps, is to identify the most susceptible areas, especially those that have had expanding populations.

In the context of the challenges imposed by climate change, which exerts constant pressure on water security in Morocco, the Moulouya River, one of the main sources of surface water, frequently undergoes spatiotemporal variations in its quality. This situation is particularly worrying in the upstream part of the river, where the old Zaida mine is located, which is now inactive and leaves significant residues in the form of slag heaps in direct contact with the waters of the Moulouya River. To assess the impact of this abandoned mining waste, eight (08) water sampling stations (S1 to S8) were chosen to analyse the concentrations of two (02) essential metals, namely, lead and zinc. The results revealed lead concentrations of approximately 0.13 mg/L on average during the dry period and 0.09 mg/L during the humid period. The average zinc concentration was 0.29 mg/L during the dry season and 0.32 mg/L during the humid season. The maximum concentrations were recorded at the stations closest to the aforementioned mine, in particular, S1, S2 and S3. Other maximum concentrations were observed at station S6. These results highlighted the significant impact of mining slag heaps exposed to the open sky on the physico-chemical and metallic quality of Moulouya waters. This finding highlights the urgency of continued monitoring of this vital water resource to protect it against potential risks of contamination.

In recent decades, the global environmental balance has been disrupted due to new environmental conditions and increasing anthropogenic pressure. In this context, the increase in frequency and magnitude of jellyfish proliferation in the Mediterranean Sea can be examined as an indicator closely associated with potential impacts of global changes. Despite their importance in ecosystem function and services, current knowledge of jellyfish diversity and phenology is largely lacking in the southern Mediterranean Sea, particularly along the Moroccan Mediterranean coast. Rhizostoma pulmo is a large scyphozoan jellyfish endemic to the Mediterranean. It is the second dominant scyphozoan species in the jellyfish community of Al Hoceima Bay. In this article, we explore the seasonal dynamics of the jellyfish R. pulmo between the estuaries of Oued Ghis and Nekkour at Souani Beach. Due to the disparity between the visual abundance of jellyfish and their rare beaching along the shores of Al Hoceima Bay, we implemented a specific method for collecting R. pulmo. This approach involves the use of a coastal trawl, a fishing net 200 meters long with a mesh size of 5 cm, deployed 80 meters from the shore and pulled from both sides by fishermen. Sampling missions conducted throughout the year 2022 revealed that R. pulmo reaches its maximum abundance in summer. The results indicate a maximum abundance of 0.28 ind/m2 in July 2022, with a maximum umbrella diameter reaching 26 cm in August 2022. Under the jellyfish umbrellas, fry of two fish species and one crustacean species were observed, adding an ecological dimension to this study.

Our study was based on using a freshwater aquatic species to assess the short-and long-term toxicity of an organophosphate insecticide commonly adopted by the Moroccan agriculture sector. Recently, groundwater pollution has emerged as one of the most severe environmental challenges, with a particular emphasis on levels of heavy metal pollution. Conservation efforts and efficient management of groundwater resources are required to determine the full scope of this damage. The current research answers the physical-chemical evaluation of the middle Kert basin’s water quality (Mediterranean area, Driouch province, Eastern Morocco) by collecting 42 samples and measuring pH, TDS that vary between 451 and 5841 mg/l, and EC that range from 0.72 to 9.41mS/cm2 according to ISO 5665. The samples were analyzed by ICP-MS and flame atomic absorption spectrometry to detect fluoride and arsenic content. Whose fluoride in the survey area varied from 0.01 mg/l to 2.85 mg/l. The hydro-chemical classification resulting from the Geographic Information System (GIS) statistical data analysis was used to interpret the analytical data on the phenomena responsible for the mineralization. This quantity is considerably higher than the maximum allowable level of 1.5 mg/L, which is the regulation for drinking water in Morocco. It indicates that both natural and artificial factors have contributed to the effects. Most stations have a fluoride concentration in the water, which can be used to identify them. It is a significant amount less than the values that would be ideal; just four wells have concentrations higher than the values that are legally allowed to be. The fluoride levels in the region’s water sources directly result from the natural elements that make up this particular geographic location.The same happened for arsenic, which exceeded 0.1 mg/l in just two samples.

All Discharge data are among the most critical factors that must be considered when evaluating the management of water resources in a watershed. Simulation of rainfall-runoff is therefore an important element in assessing the impacts of serious flooding. In the present study, rainfall-runoff in the Nekkor watershed in Al Hoceima province was simulated using GIS, remote sensing and the Hydrologic Engineering Center Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) model. The applicability, capacity and suitability of this model for rainfall runoff in the watershed were examined. The watershed parameters were generated using (HEC-GeoHMS) and ArcGIS. The model was calibrated using a daily data set that occurred in the watershed between 2003 and 2007, the validation period was from 2009 to 2012. Model performance was evaluated using a variety of different statistical indices to study the response and impact of rainfall-runoff. Model parameters were changed and calibration was performed using the Soil Conservation Service Curve Number loss method. Consistent and satisfactory performance in terms of peak discharge, total flood volume, timing of peak discharge and overall hydrograph adjustment effect was found. The determination coefficient (R2) for the validation period reached 0.73 versus 0.71 for the calibration period. The root mean square error (RMSE) is within the acceptable range. The relative bias (RE) demonstrates an overestimation in the calibration period and an underestimation in the validation period in the peak flows. These results will help decision makers to better manage water resources in this watershed and mitigate flood risks.

The contamination of Morocco’s water resources comes from three sources as like agriculture, industry, and urbanization. Within this project’s scope, we investigated groundwater contamination in the suburban community of Ain Zohra (located in the Mediterranean zone, Driouch province, eastern part of Morocco). The Zohra area is limited in east part by the rural municipality of Ain Zohra, in the north part by Driouch city and in the southern and western parts is bounded by the Boubker rural municipality. In July 2021, 21 samples were taken from the field (20 wells and 1 spring). In general, the results of this study showed that some water wells are highly mineralized as the conductivity is far above the drinking water standard. Every well’s pH is basic. Nitrate contamination in two places shows that the permeability of city soil affects the groundwater. The nitrate content might be higher than groundwater, which has 200 mg/l. In certain wells, groundwater contamination has raised organic matter levels above drinking water regulations. The water quality maps of some parameters were obtained based on application of Geographic Information System (GIS) for the study area.

This work aims to study the distribution and quantification of the genus Rhizosolenia known for its abundance and diversity among planktonic diatoms at 9 sampling stations in the Nador lagoon and during 2 seasons (spring and summer 2018). The diatoms collected in the 9 sampling stations were identified morphologically using an inverted optical microscope. A total of 10 species of the genus Rhizosolenia have been listed including: Rhizosolenia bushsolei, R alata forma alata, R bergonii, R cochlea, R hyalina, R imbricata, R setigera, R bushsolei, Rhizosolenia sp and R styliformis. The quantitative analysis of the species collected shows that the maximum cell density was recorded respectively at stations 9 and 7 located in the center of the Nador lagoon, with values of 21680 Cell/l and 15710 Cell/l. However, the minimum cell density was recorded at station 5 corresponding to Oued Bou Areg located at the edge of the lagoon with a value of 5120 Cell/l.

The groundwater of the Ghis-Nekor aquifer (Central Rif of Morocco) is the main water resource used by the inhabitants for agricultural and domestic purposes. However, its low quality may affect the health of the consumer and weaken agricultural production. The existence of the WWTP at the level of this plain, makes it a probable source of pollution for these groundwater and requires urgent water managers’ intervention. Groundwater pollution in this area may be related to natural, anthropogenic and undefined sources (agricultural and industrial activities). To assess the impact of WWTP effluent on this aquifer, ten well water samples were collected upstream and downstream of this WWTP in 2018, and then analysed for physicochemical quality. Multivariate and principal Component Analysis (PCA) of the results obtained revealed two main components, in which the largest source of total variation being F1 presented at 54.75%. The PCA has visualized two groups that distinguish slightly mineralized well waters upstream to moderately from other wells downstream of the WTTP that are highly mineralized. Generally, the groundwater in the study area is characterized by high levels of salinization. The results of this study may be useful for monitoring and managing groundwater pollution in the study area.

Water is a precious natural resource for life, and more vulnerable to different contaminations; it has become less and less drinkable because it is polluted and can carry pathogenic germs that cause water diseases. The population of the Al-Hoceima region is supplied with drinking water from the network of the National Drinking Water Board, which is not widespread in rural areas where there is the frequent use of communal water points (spring or well). Health concerns remain related to the consumption of untreated well water, in the absence of a department responsible for the management of well water (development, equipment, treatment, protection, and quality control). To preserve the health of the population from any source of contamination carried by water, the Ministry of Health, carries out, through the provincial hygiene services, the control and monitoring of the physical-chemical and bacteriological quality of water in the framework of the fight against water diseases. The objective of this work was to determine the state of groundwater quality in the Al-Hoceima region, based on the study of physicochemical and bacteriological parameters. A control of 41 collective water points was carried out, including 30 wells and 11 springs. The collected samples were analyzed to measure some physical parameters: electrical conductivity, pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen, possibly looking for indicator germs of fecal contamination, namely coliform bacteria, Escherichia coli, and intestinal enterococci. The results revealed fecal contamination of all collective water points by coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli. Appropriate measures must be taken for the disinfection of these waters before their use.

The article focuses on evaluating the seasonal changes in groundwater quality in the Al Hoceima region of northern Morocco, with an emphasis on physicochemical parameters and indicators of fecal contamination. Topics include seasonal variations in groundwater quality, analysis of physicochemical and bacteriological data, and the impact of environmental factors on water contamination.

Morocco is currently facing significant challenges due to the ever-changing climate, with its critical water sources crucial for agriculture, economy, and daily life being greatly affected. In order to thoroughly understand the impact of climate change on the Ghis-Nekor watershed, an in-depth study spanning 38 years (1978-2016) was conducted. This involved examining the meteorological data from three stations and utilizing advanced indices, such as SPI, RDI, and DI. The findings of this study revealed prominent shifts in precipitation patterns, indicating a vulnerability in the region. While there was a general increase in annual rainfall during the specified time period, a sharp decline was observed post-2008. Further analysis of drought confirmed the presence of persistent dry spells and recurring episodes, highlighting the urgent need for effective water management strategies. These crucial findings must be considered by decision-makers for successful climate adaptation, emphasizing the key role played by this study in mitigating the effects of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the suitability of groundwater from primary basins in the Tafilalet area of southeast Morocco for drinking purposes. Water samples were collected from 100 wells, and physicochemical parameters, including temperature, conductivity, pH, hardness, and organic and inorganic ion concentrations, were analyzed. The weighted arithmetic water quality index (WQI) was used as an ecological indicator for quality evaluation in relation to Moroccan drinking water criteria. Ten locations were chosen for monthly inspection based on their proximity to the potential sources of pollution. The study found a considerable improvement in water quality over a 15-year period (2004-2019), with three sites classified as "Good quality" and seven as "Poor Water". The analysis revealed that the pH values of all groundwater samples were within the acceptable range according to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The chloride ion concentrations decreased significantly over time, while the nitrate and sulfate concentrations increased. The hydrometric title of groundwater was very high in all study sites, with a significant proportion of alkaline earth metals present. The study suggests that the development of the sewerage network and supply and distribution of drinking water in the region has led to improved water quality. The study demonstrated changes in the physicochemical properties of groundwater in the Tafilalet region of Morocco over a 15-year period, with an overall improvement in water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water quality index (WQI) is the primary method applied to characterize water quality in the world. The current study employed the statistical analysis and multilayer perceptron (MLP) approaches for predicting groundwater quality in the Ghiss-Nekkor aquifer, northeast of Al Hoceima, Morocco. Fifty sampled groundwater were identified and analyzed for major anions and cations throughout May 2019. Several physicochemical parameters of all the samples were identified in this investigation, such as TDS, pH, EC, Na, K, Ca, Mg, HCO3, NO3, Br, SO4, and Cl. The entropy-weighted groundwater quality index (EWQI) was calculated from these parameters. The WQI procedure determined the suitability of groundwater for consumption. The WQI value varied from 90.98 to 337.28. The EC, TDS, WQI, and Cl− spatial distribution showed that EC and Cl− are associated with poor groundwater quality. A single sample (W16) represented unsuitable water for drinking purposes and offered a WQI value of 337.28, indicating poor drinking quality due to seawater intrusion, overexploitation, and harsh weather conditions. The majority of the values obtained for the parameters exceeded the recommended limit of the World Health Organization (WHO)'s guidelines for consumption. The findings show that using parameters is a straightforward method for predicting water quality indexes with sufficient and suitable precision. The MLP model shows good predictive performances in terms of the coefficient of determination R2, mean absolute error (MAE), and root-mean-square error (RMSE) with values of 0.9885, 5.8031, and 4.7211, respectively. The ANN approach was applied to develop a model that can accurately predict WQI utilizing mineralization, TH, NO3, and NO2 as inputs. The MAE for the model's performance was calculated to be 4.72. A Bland–Altman test was used to validate that the model is suitable. Following the test, it was determined that the model is appropriate for predicting WQI, with an error of just 0.1%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rainfall irregularity in the Al-Hoceima area places the Ghis-Nekor coastal aquifer as a primary resource for water supply. However, it is of paramount priority to adopt management and optimization plans that can mitigate the effects of the irrational use of the resource and the deterioration of its quality in the region of our study. In order to study the alteration aspects of this aquifer, 26 wells were sampled and their suitability for irrigation was assessed. The sodium adsorption rate (SAR) values indicate that most groundwater samples fall into the risk classes of high salinity and low sodium (C3-S1) and high salinity and medium sodium (C3-S2). The results also show a medium to high alkalinity risk due to the high concentration of HCO3 -. The excess of salts is largely due to the intensive exploitation of groundwater and to the phenomenon of salt-water intrusion into the coastal karst aquifer. As a result, the quality of groundwater is not adapted to sustainable agricultural production and soil balance, which requires controlled monitoring to ensure its rational use with a view to the sustainable development of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]