Jordan braces for 80 km/h winds, heavy rain

The Jordan Meteorological Department (JMD) issued an urgent weather advisory Monday, warning that the kingdom will be affected by a high-intensity low-pressure system centered over Cyprus.

The system is accompanied by a polar air mass characterized by extreme cold and significant precipitation.

Rain is expected to begin in the northern governorates late Monday before gradually spreading to central regions.

Forecasters predict heavy downpours accompanied by thunderstorms and hail in several areas.

Tuesday: Peak Intensity and Severe Wind Gusts

The impact of the depression will deepen in the early hours of Tuesday, leading to a sharp and significant drop in temperatures. Bitterly cold conditions are expected to prevail across most of the kingdom.

The JMD forecast indicates that light snow showers, occasionally mixed with rain, are likely over high mountain peaks.

Limited and light snow accumulations are possible over the southern Shara Mountains.

Additionally, wind speeds are expected to intensify, with gusts reaching up to 80 km/h, likely triggering dust storms in desert regions before the system begins to weaken Tuesday evening.

Wednesday: Gradual Stabilization and Safety Warnings

Conditions are expected to stabilize on Wednesday with a slight rise in temperatures. However, the JMD warned of dangerous morning fog and the risk of frost formation overnight in highland areas.

In response to the incoming storm, the department urged citizens to adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• Avoid Flash Flood Zones: Stay away from valleys and low-lying areas to prevent drowning hazards.
• Secure Loose Objects: Ensure outdoor items are fastened to prevent them from being carried away by high winds.
• Exercise Driving Caution: Beware of slippery roads due to hail or sleet and reduced visibility in desert areas.
• Safe Heating Practices: Ensure proper ventilation when using heating appliances to combat the extreme cold.