Libya Weather: Sea Calm as Temperatures Rise to 40°C This Week

Libya's National Meteorological Center has issued its latest weather bulletin, forecasting a noticeable rise in temperatures across multiple regions beginning this week, with mercury levels expected to reach 40°C in western and southern areas. The update comes as sea conditions remain largely calm along most coastal areas.

Temperatures to Peak at 40°C in Western and Southern Libya

According to Mohieddin Ali, Director of Media at the National Meteorological Center, temperatures will climb significantly starting early next week before gradually moderating by mid-week. "The expected heatwave will affect several regions, with temperatures potentially reaching 40°C by the end of next week across wide areas of western and southern Libya," Ali told local media.

The sharp temperature increase will be most pronounced in inland areas, particularly regions south of Tripoli and extending toward Sabha and the southwestern desert zones. Coastal cities including Tripoli, Misrata, and Khoms will experience comparatively milder conditions due to sea breezes, though temperatures there are still expected to exceed seasonal averages.

Sea Conditions Remain Stable Across Libyan Coast

The Meteorological Center confirmed that sea conditions are stable with no active marine navigation warnings. Along the coast from Ras Ajdir to Sirte, skies are clear to partly cloudy with moderate easterly to southeasterly winds ranging between 5 and 15 knots. Wave heights are projected between 0.25 and 1.00 meters, classifying the sea as calm to light wave activity.

From Ras Lanuf to Tobruk, the forecast indicates partly cloudy skies that may thicken at times, with variable winds between 5 and 20 knots. Wave heights in this sector range from 0.50 to 1.75 meters, making for light to slightly turbulent sea conditions. Visibility remains good across most areas, though light fog may develop during late night and early morning hours along the western coast between Zuwara and Misrata.

Northeast Regions to See Cooler Temps and Scattered Rain

Unlike the western and southern regions, northeastern Libya — including areas of the Green Mountain (Jebel Akhdar) — will experience a temporary drop in temperatures over the coming days. The Meteorological Center noted increased cloud cover accompanied by scattered rain showers expected on Saturday and Sunday, particularly along coastal areas and the Green Mountain region.

Sea surface temperatures across the Libyan coast currently range between 16°C and 18°C, consistent with seasonal norms for July. The slight temperature contrast between sea and land may contribute to localized fog formation during early morning hours in coastal zones.

Detailed Regional Forecast

The National Meteorological Center's bulletin breaks down conditions by region:

  • Western Coast (Ras Ajdir to Sirte): Clear to partly cloudy, moderate easterly winds 5-15 knots, wave height 0.25-1.00m, calm sea, possible water mist overnight and morning between Zuwara and Misrata.
  • Eastern Coast (Ras Lanuf to Tobruk): Few clouds increasing at times, variable winds 5-20 knots, wave height 0.50-1.75m, light to slightly turbulent sea.
  • Western and Southern Regions: Hot to very hot with temperatures reaching 40°C, clear skies, moderate winds.
  • Northeast (Jebel Akhdar): Cooler temperatures, cloud buildup, scattered rain Saturday-Sunday.

Safety Recommendations for Residents

With temperatures expected to hit 40°C in several areas, residents in western and southern Libya are advised to take necessary precautions during peak heat hours between noon and 4 PM. The Meteorological Center recommends staying hydrated, avoiding direct sun exposure during midday, and ensuring adequate ventilation in indoor spaces. Fishermen and small craft operators along the coast are advised to monitor conditions, though no formal navigation warnings have been issued as sea conditions remain within safe parameters.

Drivers on coastal roads should exercise caution during early morning hours due to potential fog and reduced visibility, particularly along the stretch between Zuwara and Misrata where water mist is most likely.

— Libya Press / News Desk