Middle East: Adverse weather forecast across parts of Iran, Iraq, and Kuwait through at least Nov. 17

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of the Middle East through at least Nov. 17. The affected area includes parts of northwestern, southern, and western Iran, eastern Iraq, and Kuwait. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

The Islamic Republic of Iran Meteorological Organization has issued a warning for rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, dust storms, a decrease in temperatures, and snowfall over higher ground across western and northwestern regions Nov. 15, western and southwestern regions Nov. 16, and northwestern and southern regions Nov. 17.

The Iraqi Meteorological Organization has forecast heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across parts of the country through at least Nov. 16 and has warned of possible flooding in eastern regions. A significant drop in temperatures and moderate-to-strong winds are also forecast in many areas.

The Kuwait Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning (the highest level on a two-tier scale) for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across Kuwait Nov. 15. Showers and storms are expected to be accompanied by reduced visibility, strong winds, and rough seas. The adverse weather conditions are forecast to persist through at least early Nov. 17.

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

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 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 heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue additional mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services may occur 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 dry riverbeds. Moderate winds and dust storms may precede significant rainfall, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high dust levels without rain.

The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the regions. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Additionally, 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. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could flood some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.

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.

Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.