Wissam Abou Khachfeh, the duty chief at the Meteorological Department at Rafic Hariri International Airport, said the airport was forced early this morning to divert several flights to Larnaca due to intense thunderstorms and low visibility.
Speaking to Voice of Lebanon radio, he explained that towering storm clouds carrying large amounts of rain and strong electrical activity can sometimes pose a risk to aircraft, prompting rerouting when necessary. He added that the weather is expected to improve later today.
As for overall conditions, Abou Khachfeh noted that Lebanon remains under the influence of a low-pressure system centered southwest of Turkey, accompanied by relatively cold air masses that brought heavy rainfall to several areas yesterday.
He said precipitation levels ranged between 40 and 60 millimeters depending on the region, adding that Lebanon is still below the typical seasonal averages for November. The low-pressure system is expected to gradually weaken starting tomorrow, with temperatures set to rise at the beginning of next week.
Speaking to Voice of Lebanon radio, he explained that towering storm clouds carrying large amounts of rain and strong electrical activity can sometimes pose a risk to aircraft, prompting rerouting when necessary. He added that the weather is expected to improve later today.
As for overall conditions, Abou Khachfeh noted that Lebanon remains under the influence of a low-pressure system centered southwest of Turkey, accompanied by relatively cold air masses that brought heavy rainfall to several areas yesterday.
He said precipitation levels ranged between 40 and 60 millimeters depending on the region, adding that Lebanon is still below the typical seasonal averages for November. The low-pressure system is expected to gradually weaken starting tomorrow, with temperatures set to rise at the beginning of next week.
