Severe Marine Warning Issued in Egypt as Mediterranean Waves Reach 5.5 Meters
Egypt is facing adverse weather conditions as the General Authority for Meteorology has issued an urgent marine warning. This warning is prompted by a deep atmospheric depression impacting the region, resulting in significant disruptions to navigation along the Mediterranean coast, where wave heights are expected to reach dangerous levels of 5.5 meters.
The authority announced that the disturbance will commence at 2 AM on Friday and persist until 10 AM on Saturday, affecting all Mediterranean coastal areas. In contrast, the Red Sea is anticipated to experience less severe conditions, with wave heights ranging from 2 to 3 meters.
* Strong Winds and Elevated Waves
Dr. Manar Ghanem, a spokesperson for the General Authority for Meteorology, explained that the warning is due to a deep atmospheric depression in the upper atmosphere, coinciding with a surface low over the Mediterranean Sea. This situation is expected to generate strong winds across much of the country.
Wind speeds are projected to range from 50 to 70 kilometers per hour, which will significantly impact sea conditions, raising wave heights to between 3.5 and 5.5 meters. The peak of this disturbance is expected to occur early Friday and continue through Saturday morning.
While the authority has not yet mandated a halt to marine activities, it has stressed the importance of exercising extreme caution and avoiding maritime activities during this period. Continuous monitoring of weather updates is advised, with the possibility of halting marine operations if conditions deteriorate further.
* Navigational Safety Recommendations
Captain Mohamed Nagy, an expert in navigation, maritime transport, and logistics, has provided essential guidelines for safely navigating during these turbulent weather conditions, emphasizing that safety should be the foremost concern.
Key Recommendations Include:
• Regular inspection of vessels and readiness of safety equipment.
• Ongoing monitoring of marine weather forecasts.
• Maintaining safe speeds and being vigilant for potential hazards.
• Establishing a clear emergency plan and training crew members to handle sudden changes.
Captain Nagy also emphasized the importance of ensuring the functionality of engines and steering systems, as well as checking life jackets and rescue boats before departure.
He concluded by advising fishermen and recreational boaters to refrain from sailing during these adverse weather conditions and to adhere strictly to the instructions of relevant authorities to ensure safety, while also avoiding swimming amid severe climatic disturbances.
