Egypt entered the first weekend of January with calmer skies and moderate daytime warmth, even as nights continued to bite. Forecasters say Sunday brought balanced winter conditions, though early-morning fog and late-night cold remained part of daily life across much of the country.
Moderately Warm Days Bring Brief Relief Across Cities and Countryside
According to the Egyptian Meteorological Authority, moderately warm weather prevailed during daylight hours across Egypt on Sunday, January 4, offering a short break from the colder spells seen earlier this month.
In Cairo, daytime temperatures hovered around 20°C, a reading many residents describe as “comfortable enough” for winter errands, outdoor walks, and daily commuting. Similar conditions were reported across Lower Egypt, parts of Upper Egypt, and the Canal cities.
It felt like one of those winter days where a light jacket does the job by noon, but you still sense the season in the air. Not summer-like, not harsh. Just mild, steady, and quiet.
Forecasters said the moderate warmth was expected to dominate daytime hours, with no major heat spikes or sudden drops during the afternoon.
Still, winter hasn’t gone anywhere. It’s just waiting for sunset.
Morning Fog and Mist Reduce Visibility on Key Roads
Early risers across northern Egypt woke up to misty scenes that, in some areas, thickened into fog.
The EMA reported mist and fog forming along agricultural roads and highways stretching from the northern coasts through Cairo, North Upper Egypt, and Central Sinai. Visibility dropped noticeably in pockets, especially during the early morning hours.
Drivers on long routes had to slow down. Headlights cut through gray air. It was that kind of morning.
Fog conditions like these are common during Egyptian winters, particularly when cooler nighttime air meets lingering moisture near farmlands and water channels. While not unusual, the authority warned that such conditions can still pose risks, especially on high-speed roads.
One sentence says it all. Take it slow.
The fog was expected to clear gradually as temperatures rose after sunrise, restoring normal visibility by mid-morning in most areas.
Light Rain Possible Along Northwestern Coasts and Delta
While much of Egypt remained dry, forecasters pointed to a slight chance of light rainfall in specific northern regions.
Some areas along the northwestern coasts and parts of the northern Nile Delta were expected to see intermittent light rain. Nothing dramatic. No flooding concerns. Just brief, scattered showers that may dampen roads for short periods.
For many residents, it barely registers as rain at all.
The EMA stressed that these showers were expected to be light and localized, with no major disruptions anticipated. Agricultural activity, transport, and daily routines were unlikely to be affected.
A winter sprinkle, basically.
Low Clouds Drift Over Cairo and Canal Cities
Low-level cloud formations were observed over parts of Greater Cairo, the Canal cities, and central Sinai throughout the day.
These clouds, while noticeable, were not expected to cause major weather disturbances. In a few isolated locations, they could lead to light drizzle, but officials emphasized that any such rainfall would be minimal.
The sky looked heavy at times, gray and muted, but it didn’t carry the threat of storms.
For photographers, it was soft light weather. For commuters, just another overcast Sunday.
Cold Tightens Its Grip After Sunset
Here’s where winter reminds everyone who’s in charge.
Despite the mild daytime conditions, extremely cold weather was expected to dominate nighttime and early morning hours across Egypt. Temperatures were forecast to drop sharply after sunset, particularly in desert areas, Upper Egypt, and open regions away from urban centers.
Even in Cairo, residents were advised to bundle up once evening arrived. The warmth of the afternoon fades fast this time of year.
Rural areas, especially in Upper Egypt and Sinai, often feel the cold more intensely due to open terrain and lower humidity. Early morning temperatures can feel biting, even if the thermometer doesn’t plunge dramatically.
Cold floors. Cold air. Cold hands before sunrise.
That’s winter in Egypt.
What This Means for the Days Ahead
Meteorologists have already hinted that colder conditions may continue to fluctuate over the coming days, with Saturday expected to feel noticeably colder, especially at night.
For now, the pattern is clear:
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Mild, manageable days
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Foggy mornings in northern regions
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Cold, sometimes harsh nights
It’s the classic Egyptian winter rhythm. Calm on the surface, sharp at the edges.
Residents are advised to remain cautious during early morning travel, dress in layers, and stay alert for changing visibility conditions, especially along highways and agricultural roads.
Winter may be gentle during daylight hours, but it still knows how to surprise you before dawn.
