Rare snowfall blankets African city for first time in 25 years

Residents of a North African metropolis have been left surprised this month after snow fell within the streets for the primary time in a long time, turning a often dry city panorama right into a winter scene extra typical of Europe than North Africa.

On 7 January 2026, the town of Oujda, close to Morocco’s border with Algeria, recorded about two centimetres of snow in its metropolis centre. Close by cities and villages noticed even heavier falls, with as much as 10 centimetres reported in some areas.

The snowfall occurred throughout an intense chilly snap that pushed temperatures sharply decrease throughout components of North Africa, pushed by a strong low-pressure system and an inflow of chilly air.

Uncommon snowfall for a semi-arid area

Oujda lies in a semi-arid area the place winter temperatures sometimes vary between 4°C and 10°C, making snowfall extremely uncommon.

Whereas snow is frequent in Morocco’s Excessive and Center Atlas mountains, dwelling to ski resorts reminiscent of Ifrane and Oukaimeden, it’s hardly ever seen in low-lying cities like Oujda.

In keeping with DailyMail, some native stories recommend the town final noticed snow round 14 years in the past, however climate companies reminiscent of Arabia Climate estimate that it has been nearer to 25 years since Oujda skilled a comparable snowfall.

Streets flip white as residents rejoice

The surprising snowfall sparked pleasure throughout the town, with residents wrapping up in heavy jackets and heading open air to benefit from the uncommon second.

Movies and photographs shared on social media confirmed snow-dusted rooftops, automobiles and streets, with locals laughing, taking part in and documenting what many described as a once-in-a-generation occasion.