Egypt’s Weather Authority Explains Rare Summer Rainfall, Dismisses Mediterranean Weather Rumors

Egypt’s Meteorological Authority has clarified the reasons behind recent unusual weather patterns, including rare rainfall during July, while dismissing social media rumors about abnormal conditions in the Mediterranean Sea.

Dr. Manar Ghanem, member of the Media Center at the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA), explained that rainfall in the peak of summer is a rare phenomenon in Egypt, but has occurred recently due to rapid climate change altering weather patterns and their timing. “What was once considered rare or exceptional has now become more frequent and expected due to climate change,” she said.

She noted that Egypt was affected by an uncommon low-pressure system for this time of year, combined with an upper atmospheric trough, high surface humidity, active surface lows, and elevated temperatures. These factors together led to the formation of towering cumulonimbus clouds, resulting in rainfall across various regions.

The rainfall varied in intensity and was primarily concentrated in northern governorates, the Nile Delta, parts of Greater Cairo, and the Suez Canal cities. Some clouds were accompanied by thunderstorms and strong downdraft winds, increasing surface wind speeds.

Dr. Ghanem emphasized that such unusual weather events are mainly due to disruptions in pressure systems driven by climate change, altering how low- and high-pressure areas influence Egypt. She added that while the world is experiencing faster climate shifts, there is no immediate cause for alarm despite the likelihood of seeing more atypical weather in coming seasons.

Addressing rumors circulating online, Dr. Ghanem firmly denied claims of abnormal weather phenomena over the Mediterranean Sea. “There is no truth to these reports. The Mediterranean has not experienced any unusual atmospheric disturbances,” she confirmed.

She explained that recent higher waves were simply the result of normal wind activity and did not indicate extraordinary conditions. “Some days may witness increased wind speeds over the Mediterranean, causing disruptions to maritime navigation and higher waves, but this is a normal, recurring phenomenon,” she said. She assured the public that coastal conditions remain safe for visitors, while urging people to follow EMA’s daily updates to stay informed about any potential weather changes.