The mountainous region of Chamharouch, leading to the summit of Mount Toubkal, witnessed a tragic accident over the past weekend, as four Moroccan tourists lost their lives due to carbon monoxide poisoning while attempting to keep warm inside a rented mountain cabin. This incident occurred amid plummeting temperatures and heavy snowfall.
According to available sources, the victims hailing from the cities of Essaouira and Agadir—had rented a mountain lodge for the night during their trekking trip. In an effort to combat the extreme cold, they used a traditional charcoal heater inside the enclosed space. However, the lack of proper ventilation led to the accumulation of carbon monoxide gas, causing them to suffocate in their sleep. The victims, all over forty years old, included one woman, while a fifth individual narrowly survived the ordeal.
The sole survivor managed to escape the room and alert nearby trekkers, who quickly notified authorities. Despite the rugged and difficult terrain, the Royal Gendarmerie and rescue teams responded promptly, reaching the site and evacuating the bodies on muleback before transferring them to Marrakech for medical and legal procedures.
This heartbreaking incident has once again highlighted the dangers of using traditional heating methods in poorly ventilated spaces. Experts and authorities stress the importance of ensuring adequate airflow when using any fire-based heating sources, especially in mountainous areas where temperatures drop significantly.
The tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the critical need for caution when camping or staying overnight in remote cold-weather regions, urging adventurers to take necessary safety precautions to prevent fatal accidents caused by improper ventilation or unsafe heating practices.
source : fesnews media