12 Dec 2019 | 06:55 AM UTC
Lebanon: Severe weather forecast nationwide December 12-15
Lebanese meteorology officials forecast severe weather nationwide between December 12-15; heavy rain, lightning, strong winds, and associated disruptions expected
Event
The Lebanese Meteorology Department (LARI) forecasts severe weather to impact the country between Thursday, December 12, through Sunday, December 15. LARI forecasts occasional torrential heavy rain accompanied by lightning and strong south-western winds from Thursday through Sunday. The weather agency has also issued a flood alert for Thursday.
Heavy rainfall on Sunday, December 8, caused significant transportation disruptions in Beirut and throughout Lebanon, including the closure of a tunnel under the capital's Rafik Hariri International Airport (BEY).
Associated transportation and business disruptions, as well as power outages, are expected in affected areas.
Advice
Individuals in Lebanon should monitor weather reports, confirm road conditions before heading out, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.
