Mongolia: Adverse winter weather forecast across central and western regions through at least March 10

Event

Snowstorms and strong winds are forecast across parts of central and western Mongolia through at least March 10. A snowstorm is expected to arrive in western provinces overnight March 8-9 before intensifying over north-central provinces through March 9. Strong winds gusting up to 86 kph (53 mph) are also expected across south-central regions March 9. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

As of March 8, the Mongolian National Agency for Meteorology and Environment Monitoring (NAMEM) has issued the following warnings across the affected area for late March 8-9:

• Orange snowstorm warnings: Arkhangai, Bayan-Olgii, Bulgan, Dharkhan-Uul, Khovsgol, Selenge, and Zavkhan provinces.

• Orange strong wind warnings: Arkhangai, Bayankhongor, Bulgan, Govi-Altai, Khovd, Omnogovi, and Ovorkhangai provinces.

• Yellow snowstorm warnings: Orkhon and Tov provinces.

• Yellow mixed precipitation warning: Orkhon Province.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Uvs Province.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the weather conditions evolve in the coming days.

In addition to the wintry precipitation, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout the affected area.

Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected provinces. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are possible due to strong winds and poor visibility at airports across the affected areas.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where snowstorms are forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.