DZWatch Exclusive – A severe weather alert has been issued across numerous provinces in Algeria, with the National Meteorological Office warning of heavy snowfall and intense thunderstorms starting today, December 3, and continuing into tomorrow, December 4.
The alert indicates significant snowfall expected in areas exceeding 1300 meters in altitude. Accumulations of up to 10 centimeters are forecast for the provinces of Tlemcen, Sidi Bel Abbes, Saida, Tiaret, Tissemsilt, Naama, El Bayadh, Laghouat, and Djelfa. This period of snowfall is predicted to last from midday until 11:00 PM tonight.
Higher snowfall accumulations, potentially exceeding 15 centimeters, are anticipated in the eastern and central highlands. Provinces affected include Tizi Ouzou, Bouira, Bejaia, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Setif, Oum El Bouaghi, Batna, Khenchela, and Tebessa. Snowfall in these regions is expected to occur from 3:00 PM this afternoon until 6:00 AM on Thursday.
In addition to the snowfall, the meteorological services have also cautioned about heavy rainfall accompanied by hail. Rainfall amounts of up to 30 millimeters are expected in El Bayadh, Laghouat, Ghardaia, Djelfa, and Ouled Djellal, beginning at 2:00 PM and lasting until 11:00 PM tonight.
Other regions are bracing for even heavier rainfall, potentially reaching 40 millimeters, with a high probability of hail. This is expected to impact Touggourt, El Oued, El M’Ghair, Biskra, Batna, Khenchela, Tebessa, Oum El Bouaghi, Souk Ahras, and Guelma from 5:00 PM this evening until 3:00 AM Thursday.
DZWatch urges citizens to exercise extreme caution while traveling, particularly in mountainous areas and on highways, due to the risk of ice formation and potential flooding. Motorists are advised to check road conditions before embarking on journeys.
