Jordanians brace for sharp drop in temperatures this week

Meteorological stations in Jordan recorded a significant drop in temperatures early Tuesday morning, with some areas reaching the lowest surface temperatures of the season.

Shobak weather station recorded the lowest temperature, reaching -10.2°C, followed by Qatraneh at -8.5°C and Ma'an at -7.0°C.

This indicates the strong impact of the cold wave currently affecting the Kingdom.

Notable Temperatures Recorded:

• Shobak: -10.2°C
• Qatraneh: -8.5°C
• Ma'an: -7.0°C
• Al-Ghawi: -6.6°C
• Mafraq: -6.5°C
• Ajloun/Ras Munif, Amman Civil Airport, Salt, Al-Jafr: -6.0°C
• Wadi Al-Rayan: -1.8°C (lowest temperature in low-lying areas)

The Jordan Meteorological Department indicated that the cold air mass is affecting various regions across the Kingdom, including Jordan Valley, increasing the risk of frost and freezing conditions.

Citizens have been urged to take necessary precautions, particularly during the night and early morning hours, to avoid the impacts of the extreme cold.

The Central Traffic Department announced that 24 bridges in Amman will continue to be closed nightly until 7 AM as a precautionary measure due to the ongoing cold weather conditions.

In statements to Roya, the Department said all bridges previously closed due to ice have been reopened after ensuring they were safe for traffic.

Traffic patrols remain deployed across the city to manage road conditions and maintain smooth traffic flow.

Teams have responded to multiple vehicle breakdowns on various roads, which caused congestion in some areas of Amman.

Amar Al-Harasis, head of traffic operations and control at the Greater Amman Municipality, confirmed that roads in the capital remain open with no reports of ice formation.

He noted that municipal teams are coordinating with the Traffic Department to maintain smooth traffic movement.

Al-Harasis explained that all traffic signals have been adjusted to accommodate the morning rush hour as the official workday begins.

He added that the municipality continuously monitors traffic flow through surveillance cameras installed at intersections, bridges, and tunnels.

Teams in Abdali and Sports City have been directed to inspect bridges and reopen them as needed.

No complaints related to icy roads or weather conditions have been reported, according to Al-Harasis.

The Greater Amman Municipality urged residents to report any traffic-related concerns and reaffirmed its readiness to handle emergencies.

Drivers are advised to exercise caution, follow safety guidelines, and report any incidents by calling 102.

The Central Traffic Department announced Sunday the reopening of all bridges in the capital, Amman, to traffic.

The Greater Amman Municipality had previously closed 25 bridges at 11 PM on Saturday due to icy conditions.

The municipality confirmed that, in coordination with Public Security Directorate, the bridges were closed as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety amid severe weather conditions.

The decision was made to prevent accidents caused by ice due to the sharp drop in temperatures.

Arabia Weather has renewed warning about the potential for freezing conditions on roads, as temperatures in several areas have dropped to the freezing point.

This drop is due to the deep penetration of frigid winds across various layers of the atmosphere, particularly near the ground.

Weather stations affiliated with Arabia Weather revealed that temperatures in the capital, Amman, are not exceeding 3°C, while western highlands and northern regions, especially the Ajloun governorate, are experiencing freezing temperatures. In the southern Sharah Mountains, temperatures have dipped below 0°C.

It is expected that by the middle of Saturday night till Sunday morning, temperatures will sharply decrease further, dropping below freezing across wide areas, increasing the risk of ice formation, particularly on wet roads. This poses a significant danger to drivers and pedestrians.

Given these conditions, Arabia Weather advises the public to take necessary precautions to avoid the dangers of freezing and icy roads.

Additionally, it urges farmers to protect crops and livestock from the severe cold and to ensure the safe use of heating devices.

It is also recommended to wear heavy clothing, especially for children and the elderly.

The Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) announced the closure of 24 bridges in the capital, Amman, starting at midnight tonight due to the expected formation of ice as temperatures continue to drop sharply in Jordan.

Engineer Suleiman Al-Shammari, the Executive Director of Road Maintenance at the municipality, stated during his appearance on Roya TV that the decision is part of traffic safety measures aimed at protecting the public under the prevailing weather conditions.

He added that the specific bridges to be closed have been identified, though he did not provide further details.

According to the latest weather updates from the Arabia Weather Center, the kingdom is set to be affected by an extremely cold polar air mass in the coming days, which will cause a sharp drop in temperatures and extremely cold conditions across the country.

Latest weather data and maps from the ArabiaWeather indicate an increasing influx of frigid polar winds into the kingdom tonight, accompanied by an approaching polar air mass. This will lead to a significant drop in temperatures.

Exceptionally low temperatures

Temperatures are expected to continue declining tonight, with an even sharper drop on Sunday and Monday nights. Most regions will experience severe to extreme cold, with temperatures falling below freezing across vast areas of the kingdom.

Minimum temperatures across Jordan

Amman

• Saturday/Sunday night: -2°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -3°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -3°C

Irbid

• Saturday/Sunday night: -1°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -1°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -4°C

Ajloun

• Saturday/Sunday night: -2°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -2°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -5°C

Jerash

• Saturday/Sunday night: 0°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -1°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -4°C

Mafraq

• Saturday/Sunday night: -2°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -3°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -5°C

Zarqa

• Saturday/Sunday night: -1°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -1°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -3°C

Balqa

• Saturday/Sunday night: -2°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -3°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -4°C

Madaba

• Saturday/Sunday night: -2°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -3°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -5°C

Karak

• Saturday/Sunday night: 0°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -2°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -3°C

Tafila

• Saturday/Sunday night: -1°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -2°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -3°C

Ma'an

• Saturday/Sunday night: -4°C
• Sunday/Monday night: -5°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: -7°C

Aqaba

• Saturday/Sunday night: 8°C
• Sunday/Monday night: 5°C
• Monday/Tuesday night: 5°C

Warnings and Recommendations

• Wear heavy clothing to prevent extreme cold exposure
• Be cautious of ice and slippery roads, especially in the early morning hours

The Traffic Department has urged drivers to exercise utmost caution when driving on the airport road, particularly from the Al-Esal Bridge toward the Al-Mutlaq Bridge.

The department noted that visibility is limited due to the formation of dense fog.

Thick fog is now covering large areas of the capital, Amman.

Latest weather updates indicate the deepening impact of a very cold air mass of polar origin, with temperatures continuing to drop in the coming days. This will bring extremely cold weather with occasional rain and light snow on mountain heights.

In line with the decision of the Prime Minister and due to the prevailing weather conditions, the President of the University of Jordan, Dr. Nathir Obeidat, and the President of Yarmouk University, Dr. Islam Massad, decided to delay the start of working hours of their respective universities.

For the next three days, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, all lectures scheduled before 10:00 AM will be canceled. The university confirmed that all classes scheduled before 10 AM will be rescheduled and held at a later time to make up for the missed sessions.

The decision excludes units and departments whose nature of work requires otherwise, as they will coordinate their schedules directly with their respective administrations.

The decision comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff amid expected heavy rain, strong winds, and low temperatures. The university urged everyone to exercise caution while commuting and to stay updated through official channels for any further announcements.

Students are advised to check their emails and the university’s website for any changes to class schedules. The administration emphasized that all other university operations will continue as usual beyond the delayed hours.

The Ministry of Labor has urged private sector institutions to follow the directive issued by the Prime Minister regarding the delayed start of work for the next three days, Sunday through Tuesday (February 23-25, 2025).

This decision is aimed at ensuring the health and safety of employees, protecting them from the impact of the prevailing weather conditions.

The ministry emphasized that each institution should consider the nature of its work, the current weather conditions in the area of operation, and the employees' place of residence when making adjustments to working hours.

Employers are reminded to take necessary precautions, follow safety and occupational health guidelines, and prioritize the well-being of their workers during these conditions.

The government has announced adjusted working hours for public institutions and government offices due to ongoing weather conditions.

On Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday (February 23-25, 2025), official working hours will be from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to ensure the safety of employees and citizens.

This decision follows similar measures by the Ministry of Education, which adjusted school schedules in response to the weather conditions.

As Jordan experiences severe weather conditions, citizens are wondering whether the government will decide to delay working hours for public institutions and government offices on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday (February 23-25, 2025) to ensure the safety of employees and the public.

No official decision yet

As of now, no official announcement has been made regarding work schedules. However, Minister of Education Dr. Azmi Mahafzah has already announced a delay in school hours for the same period due to the expected weather conditions.

In response to the expected weather conditions and to ensure student safety, Minister of Education Dr. Azmi Mahafzah has announced adjusted school hours for Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday (February 23-25, 2025).

New school schedule:

Public schools (single-shift): Classes will start at 10:00 AM, with each lesson lasting 45 minutes.
Public schools (double-shift):

• Morning shift: Classes start at 10:00 AM, with 40-minute lessons.
• Afternoon shift: Classes start at 2:00 PM, with 40-minute lessons.

Private schools, UNRWA schools, and military schools: Classes will start at 10:00 AM, with lesson durations and schedules remaining unchanged.

The ministry urged students and parents to take necessary precautions during the cold weather.

Jordan is set to experience a sharp drop in temperatures as a polar air mass moves in, bringing freezing conditions and the possibility of snowfall in some areas, according to the latest updates from ArabiaWeather.

Saturday: Polar air mass intensifies

Temperatures will plummet 7-9°C below average, with cold to extremely cold conditions prevailing. Rain and hail showers are expected in northern and central regions, with brief snow flurries over high-altitude areas, particularly in Karak and Tafilah. Strong westerly winds may also cause dust storms in desert regions.

Sunday night: Freezing conditions and widespread frost

As the cold front strengthens over Turkey, icy winds will continue sweeping into Jordan, pushing temperatures 10°C below normal. Widespread frost and ice formation are expected, with nighttime temperatures falling below zero in several areas.

Tuesday: Severe cold persists

Bitterly cold weather will continue, accompanied by strong southeastern winds that will enhance the chill. Despite mostly clear skies, temperatures will remain at record-low levels.

Light snowfall recorded in Ajloun

According to ArabiaWeather field reports, light snowfall was observed over Ajloun’s highlands, though no accumulation was reported.

Weather safety tips:

• Drive cautiously on wet and icy roads.
• Maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
• Be prepared for freezing temperatures, especially in mountainous areas.
• Use heating devices safely to avoid hazards.

The freezing conditions are expected to persist, with the possibility of more snow flurries in the coming days.

Jordan is bracing for a sharp drop in temperatures as a polar air mass of unusually cold origin moves into the region, bringing severe weather conditions.

The forecast from Arabia Weather predicts a significant drop in temperatures over the coming days, with the peak of the cold front expected on Monday.

According to Jamal Al-Mousa, weather forecasting consultant at Arabia Weather, the country will experience a gradual decrease in temperatures starting Friday.

By Saturday, temperatures are expected to reach 4°C, followed by a further drop to 3°C on Sunday. Temperatures are expected to drop to 0°C by Sunday and Monday nights.

Al-Mousa also warned that Tuesday will witness an unprecedented chill, with widespread freezing likely to extend to the Jordan Valley. This cold snap is caused by strong southeastern winds that will significantly increase the feeling of cold throughout the day.

In addition to the freezing temperatures, there is a chance of scattered rain and light snow showers, particularly on Saturday afternoon.

Snow is expected to accumulate on higher mountain elevations, with more widespread frost and freezing conditions expected on Sunday.

While Sunday will be dry, it will still be much colder, with frost likely forming across the country. The polar air mass will peak on Monday, with a slight chance of light snow or rain in mountainous areas.

As Jordan prepares for these extreme weather conditions, residents are urged to take precautions against the cold, particularly in rural and mountainous areas where temperatures are expected to reach freezing.

According to ArabiaWeather, the latest satellite images indicate that Jordan continues to be affected by moist air currents driven by the weather system.

ArabiaWeather noted that conditions remain cold and variable between partly and mostly cloudy, with scattered rain showers occurring intermittently, especially in the northern and central parts of the Kingdom, as well as in some eastern areas and the heights of Karak, where precipitation may fall as freezing rain and hail over high mountain peaks.

ArabiaWeather explained that low clouds touching the ground lead to the formation of fog and reduced horizontal visibility over high mountain areas.

Late Friday night into Saturday morning, an additional drop in temperatures is expected, making the weather cold in most regions and very cold over high mountain elevations.

The weather will continue to be variable between partly cloudy and cloudy, with ongoing chances of scattered rain and hail showers, and light snow flurries may fall over the peaks of Jerash and Ajloun mountains.

The Jordan Meteorological Department (JMD) reported that on Friday, temperatures will drop significantly.

Additionally, very cold conditions will prevail, and the skies will be partly to mostly cloudy. Light rain showers are expected in the western regions of the kingdom.

The JMD also indicated the possibility of light snow showers for a short period over the high mountain peaks in the north and south, sometimes mixed with rain. Westerly winds will be active at times, leading to dust storms in parts of the eastern and southeastern regions of the Kingdom.

The JMD warned of reduced horizontal visibility due to fog formation over mountainous areas, as well as dust caused by active winds in the southeastern and eastern regions. There is also a risk of frost and freezing late at night over high mountain elevations, in addition to the danger of slippery roads due to wet conditions.

On Saturday, temperatures will drop further as the polar air mass deepens, making the weather even colder. Rainfall will continue in the north and center of the Kingdom, as well as in some eastern and southwestern areas.

There is also a chance of light and intermittent snow showers over high mountain elevations. Westerly winds will remain active, with strong gusts reaching up to 60km/h, causing dust storms in desert areas. By nightfall, precipitation will weaken, and wind speeds will decrease, leading to extremely cold conditions.

As for Sunday, temperatures will continue to drop, with very cold and partly cloudy weather prevailing. There will be a slight chance of light rain showers in the western parts of the Kingdom, which may fall as light snow over high elevations. Northwesterly winds will be active, with occasional strong gusts. At night, the weather will be bitterly cold, with a chance of light snow showers over mountainous areas.

On Monday, the weather will remain very cold, with partly to mostly cloudy skies and a chance of light morning rain showers, which may fall as snow over the highlands. Northwesterly winds will be moderate, occasionally becoming active.