Mongolia: Adverse winter weather forecast across much of the country through at least March 21

Event

Heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dust storms are forecast across parts of Mongolia through at least March 21. A snowstorm is expected to impact central and west-central regions overnight March 20-21 before spreading into eastern regions March 21. Winds gusting up to 86 kph (53 mph) are possible across parts of the country, as well as heavy snow accumulations in places. Strong winds may also generate dust storms in southern desert areas. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow and dust.

As of March 20, the Mongolian National Agency for Meteorology and Environment Monitoring (NAMEM) has issued the following warnings across the country March 20-21:

• Red snowstorm warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Khentii Province

• Orange snowstorm warnings: Arkhangai, Bayankhongor, Bulgan, Darkhan-Uul, Dundgovi, Govi-Altai, Ovorkhangai, Selenge, and Tov provinces

• Orange heavy snow warnings: Khentii Province

• Orange dust storm warnings: Dornogovi, Dundgovi, and Omnogovi provinces

• Orange strong wind warnings: Bayankhongor, Dornogovi, Dundgovi, Kenhtii, Omnogovi, Ovorkhangai, and Sukhbaatar provinces

• Yellow snowstorm warnings: Dornod, Khovsgol, and Zavkhan provinces

• Yellow dust storm warning: Govisumber Province

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Govi-Altai, Govisumber, and Orkhon 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.

Transport
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. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are possible due to strong winds and poor visibility at airports across the affected areas.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where snowstorms are forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.