Egypt Braces for Unexpected Weather Change After Heatwave

Egypt is set to experience an unexpected shift in weather conditions following the end of a scorching heatwave that saw temperatures soar above 40 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, according to meteorological reports. The Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA) forecasts a significant drop in temperatures and an increase in dust levels in the atmosphere in the coming days.

Cairo, which recorded a blistering 41°C during the peak of the heatwave, is expected to see temperatures plummet by up to 9°C on Friday and 11°C on Saturday. The EMA predicts that by Saturday, the capital city and the Nile Delta region will enjoy warm weather with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. The North Coast, including Alexandria and Marsa Matrouh, will experience even cooler conditions, with temperatures falling below the 30-degree mark.

The scorching heat in South Sinai, home to the popular resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh, is also anticipated to subside, with highs around 35°C and lows of 24°C expected on Saturday. Upper Egypt, which includes the cities of Luxor and Aswan, is currently confronting temperatures exceeding 40°C, but relief is on the horizon as cooler weather is predicted over the weekend.

Why this matters: The unexpected weather change in Egypt has significant implications for public health and daily life in the country. The relief from the intense heatwave will provide much-needed respite for residents and tourists alike, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses and making outdoor activities more manageable.

In addition to the temperature drop, the EMA also anticipates moderate, yet thunderous rainfall in parts of the Red Sea Mountains, South Sinai, and central and southern Upper Egypt starting Friday. During the heatwave, the EMA advised citizens to stay hydrated, minimize exposure to direct sunlight, and warned of dusty winds in many areas.

Fortunately, Thursday marks Sinai Liberation Day, a paid holiday for public and private sector employees in Egypt. This timely break will allow people to avoid the worst of the heatwave and enjoy outdoor activities, especially in the evening when temperatures are more tolerable.

The EMA emphasized that the peak of the hot weather on Wednesday was caused by tropical air masses, but assured the public that temperatures will begin to drop nationwide starting Friday. While the weather forecast brings welcome news for Egyptians, the EMA continues to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to ensure public safety and well-being during this period of unexpected weather change.

Key Takeaways

• Egypt to experience drop in temperatures, increase in dust levels
• Cairo to see temps plummet by up to 11°C by Saturday
• North Coast and South Sinai to see cooler conditions below 30°C
• Moderate, thunderous rainfall expected in Red Sea Mountains, South Sinai
• Sinai Liberation Day holiday provides respite from heatwave