Damascus, Oct. 5 (SANA) Syria’s Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management warned on Monday of heavy rain, severe thunderstorms and hail across several parts of the country on Tuesday, with strong downdrafts also possible.
The heaviest thundery rainfall is expected from Tuesday morning through late evening, primarily in coastal, northwestern and central regions, the ministry said on its Telegram channel.
Parts of western and northern Damascus countryside, as well as areas of Raqqa, Hasakah and Deir Ezzor, could also experience heavy rain.
Intense cumulonimbus clouds could bring severe thunderstorms and hail, while strong downdrafts could stir up dust and cause localized dust storms in areas that cannot be precisely forecast, the ministry said.
The ministry’s Early Warning and Preparedness Department urged people to stay away from valleys, low-lying areas and waterways during heavy rainfall and to avoid crossing flooded roads.
Motorists were advised to reduce speed and drive cautiously, while residents were urged to secure tents and loose objects and avoid exposed or elevated areas, electricity pylons and isolated trees during severe storms.
Fishermen and boat owners were also advised to exercise particular caution because of the possibility of waterspouts along the coast.
The warning comes amid unstable weather that began on Friday afternoon and intensified again on Sunday evening, bringing heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail and strong downdrafts to several areas through Monday afternoon.
N.J/ MF
