As winter approaches, Egypt is gearing up for its inaugural “al-Maknasa” storm of the year. Expected to sweep across several coastal governorates, the storm brings heavy rains, strong winds, and turbulent seas. Residents and authorities are preparing for up to four days of challenging weather conditions.
The al-Maknasa Storm: What to Expect
The al-Maknasa, or “The Broom” storm, is anticipated to hit key coastal areas, including Alexandria, Matrouh, Beheira, Kafr el-Sheikh, Port Said, and Damietta. Each governorate will experience varying degrees of impact based on their geographic location and infrastructure resilience.
- Heavy Rains: Persistent downpours that may lead to flooding in low-lying areas.
- Fierce Winds: Strong gusts capable of damaging structures and uprooting trees.
- Turbulent Waves: Rough seas affecting ports and coastal activities.
- Duration: The storm is expected to last for approximately four days, causing significant disruption.
Authorities are closely monitoring weather patterns to provide timely updates and ensure public safety during the storm’s passage.
Affected Regions and Their Preparedness
Different governorates have varying levels of preparedness to handle the storm. Alexandria, being one of the most populous coastal cities, has implemented extensive measures to mitigate potential damage. Smaller regions like Matrouh and Kafr el-Sheikh are also taking necessary precautions to protect their communities.
| Governorate | Key Preparations |
|---|---|
| Alexandria | Evacuation plans for vulnerable areas, emergency shelters open |
| Matrouh | Increased patrols, distribution of sandbags |
| Beheira | Reinforcement of drainage systems, public advisories |
| Kafr el-Sheikh | Tree trimming, securing loose objects |
| Port Said | Port closures, safety drills for workers |
| Damietta | Coastal barriers installed, community alerts |
These measures are aimed at minimizing the storm’s impact and ensuring that residents remain safe and informed throughout its duration.
Origins and Significance of the Storm’s Name
The name “al-Maknasa” was chosen to reflect the storm’s powerful and sweeping nature. According to the Alexandria Port Authority, the storm clears the atmosphere of lingering clouds from autumn disturbances, signaling a shift in weather patterns.
Its cold northwest winds generate strong sea currents and bring heavy rains, marking the beginning of Egypt’s winter season. Typically starting after mid-November, the al-Maknasa storm sets the tone for the country’s weather in the coming months, lasting around four days each year.
Understanding the storm’s characteristics helps locals better prepare and respond to its challenges, ensuring resilience in the face of nature’s forces.
Tips for Staying Safe During the Storm
Officials from the affected governorates have outlined several recommendations to help citizens navigate the storm safely:
- Cancel Unnecessary Appointments: Avoid traveling during heavy rains to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure smooth operation of emergency services.
- Limit Car Movement: Allow rainwater removal vehicles to function without obstruction by reducing non-essential traffic.
- Drive Carefully: Keep speeds below 60 km/h and maintain a greater safety distance to prevent collisions on slippery roads.
- Avoid Hazardous Areas: Do not stand under old or dilapidated balconies that may collapse, and avoid parking under trees that could fall during strong winds.
Following these guidelines can significantly enhance personal safety and help communities weather the storm with minimal disruption.
