Lebanon today »Lebanon is on a date with the first snowstorm … warnings of the power of Aseel and invitations to prepare

The Meteorological Authority expected that the effect of the depression will start from Wednesday, when the rains would fall abundantly, accompanied by the formation of torrents and soil drifts on mountain roads. It is expected that the storm will continue until Friday evening, with the atmosphere remain cold until the end of the week with the risk of forming ice on mountainous and internal roads.

Civil defense warnings and safety procedures
The General Directorate of Civil Defense warned of the danger of the storm, calling on citizens to take the necessary precautions, especially in the high areas. She stressed the need to clean and maintain heating means to avoid any incidents resulting from gas leakage or combustion. It also called for not putting clothes near the heaters and providing appropriate ventilation inside the houses when using coal or firewood.

Safety instructions during the movement
With expectations of snow accumulation and the interruption of some roads, the competent authorities stressed the need to equip cars with metal chains and ensure the validity of the tires before heading to the mountainous areas. She also advised to carry a cargo battery, necessary drugs, and foodstuffs in the event of having to travel during the storm.

On the coasts, the authorities warned against approaching waves and roads flooded with water, while the mountain residents advised storing food and medicines and securing heating means before the storm intensifies. (To read the full instructions, click here)

The efforts of the Ministry of Works
For his part, the Minister of Public Works and Transport Ali Hamiya stressed that the ministry’s workshops continue to clean the rain streams on the outstiter and public roads around the clock, stressing the need for citizens to adhere to traffic instructions and not to throw waste on the roads, in order to avoid the blockage of water drains and the occurrence of floods.

Immediate contact with emergency
The General Directorate of Civil Defense called on citizens to call the emergency number 125 when needed, while emphasizing the need to follow up on weather updates and take the utmost caution in the coming days.