Severe Cold Front to Bring Heavy Snowfall Across Kurdistan, Expert Warns
"Starting Sunday and Monday, a new wave of rain and snowfall will begin, with temperatures dropping further, causing snowfall even in the city centers of the Kurdistan Region," Kamal added.
Feb. 6, 2025
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The Kurdistan Region is set to experience a significant drop in temperatures and heavy snowfall, including in city centers, as a powerful air depression from Eastern Europe moves in, according to meteorology and seismology expert Mohammed Kamal.
"Due to the arrival of a severe air depression from Eastern Europe, I believe it will continue raining across Kurdistan Region cities on Thursday and Friday morning, with snowfall expected in mountainous areas," Kamal told Kurdistan 24 English.
He further explained that cold polar winds from Russia will push into the region, leading to a sharp nine-degree Celsius temperature drop. These conditions will bring substantial snowfall, particularly in areas above 1,200 meters in elevation.
"Starting Sunday and Monday, a new wave of rain and snowfall will begin, with temperatures dropping further, causing snowfall even in the city centers of the Kurdistan Region," Kamal added.
Winter Tourism and Economic Impact
The Kurdistan Region is a popular winter destination, drawing thousands of visitors from Iraq’s central and southern cities, as well as foreign tourists. Snow-covered mountain resorts offer a seasonal boost to the local economy, with ski resorts, hotels, and local businesses benefiting from increased tourism.
However, the incoming extreme weather also raises concerns about travel disruptions and potential infrastructure challenges. Authorities may need to take precautionary measures to ensure public safety, particularly on major highways and in urban areas expecting rare snowfall.
As the region braces for this harsh winter spell, residents and businesses are urged to prepare for significant weather-related disruptions in the coming days.