Exceptional Rainfall in January 2026
The month of January 2026 was marked by an exceptional rainfall episode in the northern and central regions, generating significant hydrological impacts, while the south remained in a relative deficit situation, according to the National Institute of Meteorology (INM).
National Rainfall Totals
At the national level, based on data from 26 main stations, the total rainfall accumulation reached 2,302.7 mm, compared to a normal of 1,118.1 mm, representing 206% of the climatological normal for the period 1990-2020, with a contrasted spatial distribution, the institute specifies in its preliminary climatological bulletin dedicated to January 2026.
Regional Rainfall Variations
Thus, January 2026 can be classified as strongly surplus in terms of rainfall at the national level, with a marked concentration of surpluses in the northern and central regions, placing it 6th in the ranking of the rainiest January months at the national level. The north recorded 232% of the normal (+1,011 mm), the center 223% (+244.8 mm), and the south only 54% (-71.2 mm).
Hydrological Impacts
The exceptionally high rainfall totals observed in the north and center led to rapid saturation of the soil, a significant increase in surface runoff, and a strong solicitation of stormwater drainage networks, explaining the localized flooding, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas.
Historical Context
Over the period 1950-2026, January 2026 ranks 6th among the rainiest January months at the national level, with a total of 2,302.7 mm, although this total remains lower than historical records, notably that of 1990 (3,901.2 mm). It remains significantly high and comparable to the years 1999 (2,699.5 mm), 2009 (2,696.6 mm), 2003 (2,650 mm), and 2006 (2,566.5 mm), confirming the exceptional nature of the observed rainfall and highlighting the importance of this episode and its hydrological repercussions at the national level.
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