Mongolia: Adverse winter weather forecast across western regions through at least Nov. 15

Heavy snowfall and strong winds are forecast across western Mongolia through at least Nov. 15. The Mongolian National Agency for Meteorology and Environment Monitoring (NAMEM) has warned winds gusting in excess of 86 kph (53 mph) are possible in parts of the region Nov. 14 and a snowstorm is expected to impact Bayan-Olgii and Khovd provinces. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

The NAMEM has issued the following warnings across the affected area Nov. 14:

• Orange heavy snowfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Bayan-Olgii Province.

• Orange blizzard warnings: Khovd Province.

• Orange strong wind warnings: Govi-Altai and Khovd provinces.

• Yellow heavy snowfall warnings: Arkhangai Province.

• Yellow blizzard warnings: Khovsgol, Uvs, and Zavkhan provinces.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Bayan-Olgii and Bayankhongor provinces.

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.

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. Flight delays and cancellations are possible due to strong winds and poor visibility at airports across the affected areas.