29 May 2023 | 08:05 AM UTC
Algeria: Adverse weather forecast across northern and central regions through at least May 31
Severe weather forecast across northern and central Algeria through May 31. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of northern and central Algeria through at least May 31. Storms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail. Strong winds could generate dust storms in arid parts of the region. As of early May 29, Algeria's National Meteorological Office has issued the following warnings:
Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Annaba, Batna, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Constantine, El Tarf, Guelma, Khenchela, Mila, Oum El Bouaghi, Setif, Skikda, Souk Ahras, and Tebessa provinces. Rainfall totals of 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 inches) are forecast.
Orange strong wind warnings: Bechar, Biskra, southern Djelfa, El Bayadh, El M'ghair, El Meniaa, El Oued, Ghardaia, Laghouat, southern Naama, Ouargla, Ouled Djellal, and Touggourt provinces. North to northeasterly winds of 60-70 kph (37-42 mph) are forecast.
Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: across the affected area.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Heavy rainfall on May 24 resulted in flooding across northeastern Algeria. The worst affected is Tipaza Province. Authorities carried out rescues and evacuations in Algiers, Batna, Blida, Boumerdes, El Tarf, Guelma, Oum El Bouaghi, Tebessa, and Tipaza provinces. Authorities have confirmed one fatality in Bou Hachana Municipality in Guelma Province due to floodwaters and another fatality in Djeballah Khemissi Commune in Tipasa due to a collapsed wall. At least 30 people in Heliopolis Commune in Guelma Province and 15 people in Basbas Commune in El Tarf trapped in floodwaters were rescued.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancelations at airports in affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancelations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
