Polar Air Mass Sweeps Into Kurdistan Region

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region is bracing for the impact of an intense polar air mass, which began affecting the country on Sunday evening, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures, strong winds, and the likelihood of rain and snow in high-altitude areas. 

The cold spell is expected to persist until Tuesday evening, according to the Iraqi Meteorological Authority.

In its latest weather update, the Meteorological Authority provided details on the unstable atmospheric conditions expected in the coming days, warning of dust storms, fluctuating temperatures, and varying rainfall levels across the country.

Satellite Images Confirm Polar Air Mass Impact

A newly released meteorological report, accompanied by satellite images, confirmed the movement of dense cloud formations associated with the cold front, which is currently affecting the coasts of Egypt and the Levant region.

According to the Meteorological Authority, the system has already begun impacting western Iraq, causing a shift in winds to a strong southeastern flow, which will gradually extend to other regions.

Additionally, cumulonimbus clouds are forming over Kurdistan Region, due to the intrusion of a westerly tropical air current, further contributing to unstable weather patterns.

Strong Winds and Plunging Temperatures Expected

By Sunday night, the low-pressure system will rapidly push eastward from the west, causing a swift shift in winds to a frigid northwesterly flow. 

The Meteorological Authority warns that this change will bring strong winds and potential dust storms, particularly in open areas and desert regions.

Rainfall and Snowfall Distribution Across Kurdistan Region

The heaviest rainfall is expected in the north, northwest, and eastern regions, where moderate to heavy rain is forecast, with periods of persistent showers.

As the cold front progresses, Kurdistan region's high-altitude areas are likely to witness a heavy snowfall, adding to the wintery conditions gripping the region.