The desert locust outbreak in Mauritania and Morocco's southern provinces persisted throughout November, with numerous hopper groups, bands, and small swarms continuing to move north, according to the latest FAO update. By November 24, Morocco had already treated more than 4,184 hectares, with isolated and scattered immature and mature adults reported near Tiznit and Guelmim. FAO warns that with winter rains intensifying, conditions across southern Morocco could trigger a new generation of breeding. If left unchecked, swarms could form in the spring, posing a threat to agriculture across northwestern Africa. Several areas in the Sahara remain unsurveyed and may still harbor small immature groups, warns the document made public on November 26. According to the update, hopper groups and bands were observed from Bir Gandouz up to Laayoune, with some reaching 4th and 5th instars during the second dekad. FAO forecasts that migration from Mauritania into southern Morocco will continue in December. If rains materialise, maturation and egg-laying may begin, extending the risk zone into the Souss, Massa, and Draa valleys.
