Algiers, October 29, 2025 – The National Meteorological Office (ONM) has issued a severe weather warning for numerous provinces across Algeria, forecasting thunderstorms, strong winds, and the possibility of tornadoes (zawabﻊ) beginning this afternoon and continuing into the late evening. The alert, released earlier today, covers a significant swathe of the country, urging residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and protect property.
The warning, which is valid from 3:00 PM until midnight tonight, highlights the potential for localized intense rainfall, frequent lightning, and damaging wind gusts. Specific areas identified as being at risk include Algiers, Sidi Bel Abbes, Tipaza, Tissemsilt, Laghouat, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Relizane, Bejaia, M’Sila, Tiaret, Mila, Oum El Bouaghi, Guelma, Tizi Ouzou, Chlef, Batna, Annaba, Setif, Djelfa, Tlemcen, Constantine, Skikda, El Bayadh, Jijel, Ain Defla, Medea, Saida, Naama, Boumerdes, Bouira, Mascara, Blida, and Bechar. This geographically diverse list indicates that the adverse weather conditions are expected to impact both coastal and inland regions.
The ONM bulletin emphasizes the risk of rapidly changing weather conditions. The combination of thunderstorms and strong winds could lead to reduced visibility, making driving hazardous. Furthermore, the possibility of tornadoes, although difficult to predict with pinpoint accuracy, necessitates heightened vigilance, particularly in open areas and rural communities. Residents are advised to monitor weather updates closely and heed any instructions issued by local authorities.
Authorities are urging residents in the affected provinces to take the following precautions: secure loose objects around their homes, such as patio furniture, garbage cans, and construction materials; avoid unnecessary travel, especially during the peak hours of the storm; stay indoors during thunderstorms and away from windows and doors; and be aware of potential flash flooding in low-lying areas. Farmers are also advised to take steps to protect livestock and crops.
The potential for power outages is also a significant concern. The combination of strong winds and lightning strikes can damage power lines and transformers, leaving communities without electricity. Residents are encouraged to have emergency kits prepared, including flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and bottled water.
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Beyond the immediate safety concerns, the predicted weather could also have an impact on various sectors of the Algerian economy. Disruptions to transportation networks, including road, rail, and air travel, are possible. The agricultural sector could also suffer losses due to crop damage from strong winds and heavy rainfall. Local businesses are advised to review their contingency plans and take steps to minimize potential disruptions to their operations.
The Algerian Civil Protection services are on high alert and have deployed personnel and equipment to strategic locations across the affected provinces. They are prepared to respond to any emergencies, including search and rescue operations, flood relief, and assistance to communities affected by power outages. Residents are urged to contact the Civil Protection hotline in case of emergencies.
The ONM is continuing to monitor the weather situation closely and will issue updated bulletins as necessary. Residents are advised to stay informed by following the ONM’s official website and social media channels. The current weather pattern is attributed to a combination of factors, including a low-pressure system moving across the region and the interaction of warm, moist air with cooler air masses. Similar weather events have occurred in Algeria in the past, highlighting the country’s vulnerability to extreme weather conditions.
This weather event underscores the importance of investing in robust weather forecasting and early warning systems. Accurate and timely information is crucial for enabling individuals and communities to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of severe weather. Furthermore, continued investment in infrastructure that is resilient to extreme weather events is essential for protecting lives and property. As climate change continues to alter weather patterns around the world, Algeria must adapt and strengthen its resilience to these increasingly frequent and intense events. The government is expected to address the nation later today, providing updates and outlining further measures to ensure public safety and mitigate any potential damages. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with authorities as they work to manage this evolving weather situation.
