Spatial Distribution of Socio-Economic Vulnerability to Heat and Cold Waves in Morocco

Abstract

Heatwaves and coldwaves pose a major threat to human lives, infrastructure, and economic sectors globally. Implementing effective management measures and improving public safety in the face of these hazards requires precise knowledge of the spatial distribution of vulnerability.This study primarily aims to identify the key socio-economic vulnerability indicators for each of these two climate hazards. It then develops vulnerability models for Morocco by combining available census data with population mapping to generate indicators at the finest possible spatial resolution.The results of this approach highlight the spatial distribution of both types of vulnerability and identify the most exposed regions in Morocco. This work thus serves as a strategic decision-making tool to target critical areas and enhance disaster prevention