Libya Experiences Intense Heatwave with Expected Temperature Shifts

The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) in Libya has issued a weather forecast indicating a hot spell affecting most regions of the country, with temperatures surpassing the usual for May, reaching between 37-43°C. The forecast also mentions strong southern winds contributing to the heat. As the day progresses, a shift in wind direction towards the northwest is expected in areas from Ras Jadir to Tripoli, resulting in a noticeable temperature drop. Moreover, clouds are predicted to increase in some parts of the Nafusa Mountain by evening.

According to the NCM, tomorrow will likely see a relative decrease in the intensity of the heat wave across the northwest regions, with temperature levels remaining relatively high to moderate throughout the beginning of the week in other parts of the country. The weather conditions for Thursday, 16 May 2024, in various regions of Libya are as follows:

1. Ras Jadir to Sirte – Al-Jafara Plain – Jabal Nafusa (North West of Libya):
– Sky condition: Clouds increasing intermittently, potentially accompanied by thunderstorm rain, especially in mountainous areas. – Wind: Initially moderate southerly to southwesterly, becoming northwesterly by the afternoon along the coast. – Temperature: Ranging between 37-43°C, with a notable afternoon drop expected in some areas.

2. Gulf – Benghazi plain up to Emssad (North East of Libya):
– Sky condition: Mainly clear with few clouds. – Wind: Southerly to southwesterly, occasionally moderate to active, causing dust and sand disturbances at times. – Temperature: Expected to range between 35-43°C in most areas.

3. Al-Jufra – Sabha – Ghat – Ghadames – Hamada (South West of Libya):
– Sky condition: Intermittent cloud cover predicted. – Wind: Varied from southeasterly to southerly, moderate to brisk, leading to sand and dust disturbances. – Temperature: A range of 38-42°C anticipated in most areas.

4. The Oases – Sarir – Tazirbo – Kufra (South East of Libya):
– Sky condition: Some clouds expected. – Wind: Moderate easterly to southeasterly. – Temperature: Temperature expected to fluctuate between 35-40°C.