Spring Weather Volatility Marks the Weekend as Temperature Swings Approach

As the weekend approaches, Lebanon's meteorological outlook points to variable conditions typical of spring's unpredictable nature. Residents can expect temperature shifts, cloud cover, and the possibility of isolated showers across different parts of the country.

Muhammad Kanj, head of the Surface Estimations Department at the Meteorological Department at Beirut Airport, described the current atmospheric situation in an interview as influenced by air masses moving through the eastern Mediterranean basin. This system is driving notably cooler conditions compared to the previous day, with temperature drops ranging from 2 to 5 degrees Celsius.

The interior zones and Bekaa Valley are experiencing the most pronounced cooling effects, while coastal areas are seeing declines of approximately 3 degrees. Kanj indicated that today's conditions will feature partly cloudy to overcast skies with elevated cloud formations, alongside temperatures running below seasonal norms—particularly pronounced in mountainous and inland territories. Dense fog is expected to develop at higher elevations.

Light and scattered precipitation is anticipated today, potentially carrying dust particles at times, with the northern regions most likely to receive rainfall beginning in the afternoon. These showers are forecast to persist through tomorrow morning before atmospheric conditions gradually settle, with light dust layers becoming visible during afternoon hours.

Sunday marks a turning point in the forecast. While Saturday shows no significant temperature improvement, warming will commence gradually beginning Sunday, creating more favorable conditions for beach enthusiasts. The temperature increase is expected to span between 2 and 7 degrees depending on location. Mountainous and inland areas will experience the most substantial warming, with increases between 4 and 7 degrees, whereas coastal regions will see rises of 2 to 4 degrees. Southern areas may experience warming approaching 5 degrees.

Looking ahead to early next week, Kanj indicated that no major temperature fluctuations are anticipated, with only modest warming expected. A low-pressure system initially expected to impact Monday has been postponed, with its effects now anticipated for mid-week between Wednesday and Thursday, though its influence is expected to be limited and relatively brief.