A significant weather front is moving across Tunisia, bringing rain and hail to several regions. According to Ammar Bhagba, a geography expert and climate researcher, the weather turbulence will continue through the night and into tomorrow, affecting several northern and central regions. The rain has already started in several areas, including Bajah, Jendouba, and Bizerte, with quantities ranging from 1 to 12 millimeters.

The rain has expanded to cover other regions, including Kef, Siliana, Kasserine, Kairouan, Zaghouan, and the western part of the capital. Bhagba forecasts that the rain clouds will move towards the Gulf of Hammamet tonight, affecting Sousse and Nabeul. He also reported that hailstones of medium size, ranging from 3 to 6 centimeters, have been recorded in Sbeiba, Kasserine.

The temperature has dropped significantly in the northern and central regions, ranging from 20 to 24 degrees, after exceeding 35 degrees over the past two days. Bhagba expects the temperature to continue dropping gradually in the southern regions. He forecasts that the rain will continue into tomorrow, with the coastal regions likely to be most affected.

The weather situation is expected to improve slightly by Sunday, with only scattered rain showers forecasted. However, Bhagba warns that the beginning of next week may see light weather turbulence in the southern regions, due to a low-pressure system currently centered between Algeria and Morocco.

Meanwhile, a severe storm in Sicily, Italy, has drawn attention to the possibility of extreme weather events in the region. The storm, which was accompanied by winds of up to 200 kilometers per hour, caused significant damage but no reported human losses. Bhagba notes that Tunisia is also susceptible to such weather phenomena.

Tunisia has experienced similar weather events in the past, including a tornado in 2009 that affected several regions, including Manzel Farsi, Cherahil, and Amira El Hajaj. Bhagba emphasizes that the country needs to be prepared for such events, which can have significant impacts on infrastructure and daily life.

The authorities have not yet issued any specific warnings or alerts, but residents are advised to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and take necessary precautions. The weather turbulence is expected to continue for the next few days, with the situation being closely monitored by the relevant authorities.

Key points

  • Several regions in Tunisia are expected to experience continued weather turbulence, with rain and hail forecasted for the next few days.
  • The temperature is expected to drop significantly in the northern and central regions.
  • Tunisia is susceptible to extreme weather events, including tornadoes and storms.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.