Kingdom gears up for snowstorm

AMMAN — The impact of a depression and cold polar front currently affecting Jordan is forecast to deepen on Sunday, when strong winds, heavy rain and snowfall are expected, according to the Jordan Meteorological Department (JMD).

Meanwhile, the Civil Defence Department (CDD) has formed mobile teams to reach people in need more quickly during the polar front, while the Central Traffic Department said a plan is already in place to prevent accidents on snowy and icy roads.

The Trade Ministry also stressed that enough gas, kerosene, food and other staples will be available throughout the week, urging consumers not to buy more than they need.

The polar front and the depression will also cause temperatures to drop during this week 7^oC to 9ºC below their annual average of 13ºC at this time of the year, while nighttime temperatures will dip below zero, according to the JMD.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected, especially in the northern and central regions, while snowfall on elevations of 1,000m above sea level is expected on Sunday. By nighttime, snow will fall on areas 900m above sea level and higher.

Brisk westerly to northwesterly winds with speeds reaching 60-70 kilometres per hour are forecast, and daytime temperatures will be 6ºC, dropping to 2ºC at night in Amman.

Colder polar winds are expected to blow on Monday, with snow expected to fall on areas located 700-800m above sea level.

Another slight drop in temperatures is expected on Tuesday, with snow expected to fall on areas 700m above sea level and higher.

The CDD mobile teams will be ready to cope with any road closures, especially tunnels in all governorates, the department said, while traffic police officers have been deployed at tunnel entrances and major intersections to divert traffic in case of flooding.

The Trade Ministry said the flour supply for bakeries has been increased, since demand has doubled and more bread is consumed before and during snowstorms.

The ministry also signed an agreement with the Gas Stations Owners Association, JoPetrol Gas Company, and the Energy Ministry to provide gas stations with more fuel and kerosene for the week.