03 Feb 2023 | 03:03 PM UTC
Lebanon: Adverse weather forecast across the country through at least Feb. 7 /update 1
Severe weather forecast across Lebanon through at least Feb. 7. Possible flooding and transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Adverse weather conditions are forecast across Lebanon through at least Feb. 7. The Lebanon Meteorological Service has warned that a storm system named Farah will bring a combination of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, snowfall over higher elevations, strong winds, dense fog, and rough seas over the coming days. The storm system is expected to recede somewhat Feb. 3 before reintensifying from Feb. 4 and peaking in intensity Feb. 5-6. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected from early Feb. 4 through at least early Feb. 6. Snowfall is initially expected to only fall in areas over 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) Feb. 3 before the snow level drops through Feb. 6 to around 800 meters (2,625 feet). Strong winds could peak on Feb. 5 at around 100 kph (62 mph) and will generate rough seas with waves of up to 4 meters (13 feet). Fog is expected in mountainous areas and the combination of icy roads and reduced visibility due to fog and blowing snow could lead to near-impossible travel conditions over mountain passes. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.
Hazardous Conditions
Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and 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 over the coming days. 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 affected areas.
Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow 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 will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region due to reduced visibility caused by fog and dust. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations in coastal parts of the country 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 potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after 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 the region. 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 elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides and mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
