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Cold Snap Grips Lebanon: Expert Forecasts Snowfall and Below-Freezing Temperatures

A cold spell has settled over Lebanon, bringing with it the possibility of important snowfall and below-freezing temperatures for much of the week. While some feared the severity of the weather event, authorities are assuring the public that this is a typical winter occurrence.

Mohamed King,head of the Surface Estimates Department at the Meteorological Authority,explained that the warning was primarily focused on the intensity of the cold expected,particularly in the evening hours and extending through next Wednesday. “There was no intimidation on the issue of the depression, but the warning was the intensity of the coldness that the Lebanese touch from today, specifically in the evening period and continue until next Wednesday,” said King.

Contrary to initial predictions, the amount of rainfall associated with the depression may be less then anticipated, particularly in Beirut. king noted that the northern air mass was drier than expected, resulting in less rainfall than initially forecast.

Today, snowfall is expected at an altitude of 1,000 meters, possibly decreasing to 700 meters in the northern regions. Coastal areas may experience chilly rains due to the low temperatures. Inland temperatures are expected to peak between 6 and 7 degrees Celsius in areas like Zahle. Mountainous regions will see temperatures ranging from below zero to 6 degrees Celsius.

The temperature is expected to drop by approximately 3 degrees between today and tomorrow, with a further decrease on Sunday. Snowfall is predicted to reach 700 meters tomorrow, Saturday, potentially lowering to 400 meters in the evening. This could lead to ice formation on roads, particularly in the north and inland areas.

“The heat appears on Sunday in the areas at a height of 1500 meters, up to 6 degrees to 7 degrees below zero,” King predicted. “The weather continues on this cold until Wednesday in the morning, with ice control over the 500 meters and above, while the amount of rain on the coast shy and the possibility is the ‘cold.'”

Despite the potential disruption, King highlighted the positive aspect of the snowfall: “the positive of snowfall is that it will allow water storage in the ground in a way that compensates for drought, which is more beneficial than rain.” King added that while this depression may not be the last one, particularly during March, the snowfall will provide much-needed relief to the region’s drought conditions.

Lebanese residents are advised to take necessary precautions due to the cold weather, including wearing warm clothing, limiting outdoor activities, and being aware of potential road hazards.

How much might this snowfall help mitigate lebanon’s ongoing drought?

Navigating Lebanon’s Cold Snap: An Expert Insight with Dr. Camille Hassoun, Climate Scientist, Lebanese University

“Unseasonable Chill Grips Lebanon: Snowfall and Below-Freezing Temperatures Expected”

As temperatures plummet and snowflakes dance in the air, Lebanon is experiencing an unusual winter spell. Dr. Camille Hassoun, a renowned climate scientist from the Lebanese University, joins us today to discuss the implications and predictions surrounding this cold snap.

Forecasting Winter’s Intensity

Archyde: Dr. Hassoun, can you walk us through the expectations for this cold spell, particularly in terms of snowfall and sub-zero temperatures?

Dr. Hassoun: yes, we’re expecting a notable drop in temperatures, with high-altitude areas experiencing snowfall from today. Initially, we expected snowfall at 1,000 meters, but that could decrease to 700 meters, especially in the north. Coastal regions might experiance cold rain due to the low temperatures. Inland temperatures could reach a peak of 6 to 7 degrees Celsius in places like Zahle, while mountainous regions will witness temperatures from below zero to 6 degrees Celsius.

Rapid Temperature Drops and Snowfall Predictions

Archyde: We’ve heard reports of temperature drops and changes in snowfall predictions. can you elaborate on this?

Dr. Hassoun: Indeed, temperatures are expected to drop by approximately 3 degrees by tomorrow, with another decrease on Sunday. Snowfall is predicted to reach 700 meters tomorrow, perhaps lowering to 400 meters in the evening. This could lead to ice formation on roads, particularly in the north and inland areas. On Sunday, we could see temperatures as low as -6 to -7 degrees Celsius above 1500 meters.

The Silver Lining of Snowfall

Archyde: Despite the inconveniences, there seems to be a positive side to this snowfall. Could you explain that?

Dr. Hassoun: Absolutely. Snowfall allows for better water storage in the ground compared to rain, which can help mitigate drought conditions. This cold snap, despite being intense, may provide some relief to Lebanon’s ongoing drought issues.

Preparing for the Cold and Your Thoughts

archyde: What advice do you have for Lebanese residents facing this cold snap, and what are your thoughts looking ahead to March?

Dr. Hassoun: I advise residents to take necessary precautions: dress warmly, limit outdoor activities, and be cautious of road hazards. While this may not be the last cold spell, particularly in March, the snowfall we’re seeing now is a timely boost to our water reserves. It’s essential to stay informed and prepared as we navigate these weather fluctuations.

Stay tuned to Archyde for more updates on Lebanon’s weather and how it may impact your daily life. Let us know your experiences with and preparations for the cold snap in the comments below.