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Alexandria Braces for Recurring Storms: A Guide to the City’s Named Weather Systems
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Alexandria, Egypt, experiences roughly 20 distinct weather systems annually, primarily during the fall and winter months, bringing cold temperatures, rainfall, and turbulent sea conditions. These storms, known locally by names steeped in maritime tradition, have been identified and tracked by Alexandria’s fishermen for generations, offering a unique insight into the region’s cyclical weather patterns. Here’s a look at the storms expected to impact Alexandria through the end of 2025.
The naming of these weather events isn’t arbitrary; many are linked to historical events or, tragically, personal stories, reflecting the deep connection between the city and the sea.
The Legacy of Storms Past and future
The impact of these “nuclei,” as they are called, can be meaningful. One particularly devastating event, the Crusader core, is remembered for causing substantial sinking in Alexandria in 2015. This serves as a stark reminder of the potential for these storms to disrupt life and infrastructure.
Did you know? – Alexandria’s fishermen traditionally named storms based on observed characteristics and,sometimes,tragic events associated with them.
October: The Sulaibiya Winds
Typically arriving in the latter half of October and lasting three days, the Sulaibiya winds generally bring western winds with little to no rainfall. However,2015 proved an exception,with unexpectedly heavy downpours causing widespread flooding and traffic paralysis throughout Alexandria.
Pro tip: – Monitor local weather forecasts closely during storm season. Prepare for potential flooding and disruptions to transportation.
November: A Succession of Storms
November marks the beginning of a concentrated period of stormy weather.First comes the broom’s whirlwind, usually hitting around mid-November. This storm earns its name from the powerful northwesterly winds that “sweep” across the sea, generating waves up to 5 meters high and lasting for four days.
Following closely is the Baqi al-Maqanah system, arriving in the second half of November and also persisting for four days. This storm brings southwest winds, severe storms, and significant rainfall.
Reader question: – Why are these storms so predictable? Generations of fishermen have meticulously tracked these systems, creating a historical record.
December: Facing the Most Hazardous Storms
December brings some of the most formidable weather systems. Nawa Qasim, considered one of the most dangerous storms for Alexandria, typically arrives in the first week of December. Lasting five days, it unleashes southwesterly winds and severe storms, creating waves reaching 4 to 5 meters.The storm’s name is a somber tribute to qasim, a fisherman’s son who tragically drowned during one such event, forever linking his name to the storm’s destructive power.
The Lesser Flood Storm, hitting in the latter half of December, also lasts for five days and brings northwesterly winds and rain. It’s named for the tendency of the sea to overflow during this period, creating hazardous conditions for fishing vessels.
Holiday Season Storms
Even the holiday season isn’t immune to Alexandria’s stormy weather. The Christmas wind, coinciding with Coptic Christmas on December 28th, brings two days of western winds and intense rainfall. Similarly, the New Year’s wind, arriving on January 1st, delivers two days of western winds and rainy conditions, marking a wet start to the new year.
These recurring weather systems are a defining characteristic of life in Alexandria,shaping the city’s culture,economy,and the daily lives of its residents. Understanding these patterns is crucial for preparedness
