Northwesterly Winds Ease Libya Heatwave — NCM Issues Coast Warning

Temperatures Drop Across Northern Libya as Northwesterly Winds Bring Relief

Libya's week-long heatwave is finally breaking. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) confirmed on Friday, July 24, 2026, that northwesterly winds and increased humidity are driving a temporary but significant temperature drop across northern regions, with a coastal swimming warning in effect from Friday evening.

Temperatures that soared to 45°C in parts of northwestern Libya and Ghadames earlier this week are now receding, marking what the NCM described as a "temporary break" in the intense heat spell that began on July 19.

Friday-Saturday: Gradual Cooling Underway

The NCM stated that the heatwave's impact has weakened relatively across the north compared to previous days. The decline becomes more pronounced from Friday evening through Saturday, as northwesterly winds push cooler, moisture-laden air toward the coast.

Clouds are expected to gather Friday evening over the Jabal al-Akhdar region, accompanied by rising humidity levels. The coastal strip from Ras al-Anouf to Tobruk will see clear to partly cloudy skies with sea winds ranging between 5 and 20 knots, reaching up to 25 knots near the Brega coast, according to the center's bulletin.

Southern Libya Still Scorching

While northern regions enjoy relief, the NCM warned that southern Libya remains under the heatwave's grip. Temperatures across the south are expected to stay elevated, with no immediate sign of the cooling trend reaching interior desert areas.

The dual weather pattern — cool north, hot south — is typical for this time of year, but the intensity of the southern heat underscores the breadth of the Saharan thermal system affecting the country.

Sunday-Monday: Temporary Return of Heat

The NCM forecast a renewed rise in temperatures on Sunday and Monday across northern areas. This rebound is expected to be brief, however, as a more sustained cooling phase begins Tuesday.

Starting Tuesday, temperatures should gradually return to their normal summer averages for northern Libya, ending what has been one of the more intense heat episodes of the 2026 summer season.

Coastal Warning: Sea Conditions Unsafe for Swimming

The NCM issued a clear warning: sea conditions along the entire Libyan coast will become unsuitable for swimming starting Friday evening. Strong northwesterly winds are generating rough seas and dangerous currents that pose risks even for experienced swimmers.

Authorities advised residents and visitors along the coast — from the Tunisian border to the Egyptian frontier — to avoid swimming until conditions stabilize. The warning is particularly relevant for the weekend, when beach activity typically peaks.

What Caused This Heatwave?

The heatwave that struck Libya beginning July 19 was driven by a strong upper-atmosphere high-pressure system combined with a "khamsin" hot wind hot wind effect from the Sahara. This combination pushed temperatures 8–12°C above seasonal norms across northwestern Libya, with the peak recorded mid-week.

According to meteorological data, humidity levels were also elevated during the heatwave period, making the heat feel even more oppressive in coastal cities like Tripoli, Misrata, and Khoms.

Practical Advice for Libyans

  • Avoid swimming along the Libyan coast from Friday evening until conditions improve
  • Stay hydrated during Sunday-Monday's expected temperature rise
  • Southern residents should continue heat precautions through next week
  • Monitor NCM updates for the latest forecasts
  • Take advantage of Saturday's cooler conditions for outdoor activities

The National Center for Meteorology continues to monitor the situation and will issue updated bulletins as conditions evolve. Libyans are encouraged to follow official weather channels for real-time information.

— Libya Press / News Desk