Jordan, Lebanon: Adverse weather forecast across region through at least March 13

Event

A weather system is impacting Jordan and Lebanon through at least March 13, bringing rain, snow, and strong winds to the region. The strong winds will likely cause significant duststorms in desert regions and snowfall is possible in mountainous areas. Conditions will likely begin to improve across many parts of the region from March 13.

The Jordan Meteorological Department has warned of torrential rains in valleys and low-lying areas in the northern regions; dangerous travel conditions are likely. Low visibility is forecast in southern and eastern Jordan due to dust and at higher elevations due to fog and low clouds.

The Lebanon Meteorological Service has warned of heavy rain, snow, and strong winds across the country. Scattered rain, thunderstorms, and hail are possible, especially in southern and northern Lebanon from the evening of March 10. Snow is likely at elevations above 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) March 10, above 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) March 11. and above 900 meters (2,952 feet) March 12-13.

Hazardous Conditions
The adverse weather could produce rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow), strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is particularly possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

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.

Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected region.

Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Snow in areas of higher elevation will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

The disruptive weather could cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the Mediterranean coastline if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in affected areas. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Lebanon Meteorological Service
Jordan Meteorological Department (Arabic)