Libya’s Ministry of Environment has warned that several parts of the country will be affected by a hot desert low-pressure system over the next two days, with temperatures expected to rise sharply and reach around 47°C in some areas.
The ministry said southern regions, particularly Sabha and the Murzuq Basin, will see temperatures exceeding 40°C from Friday. It also warned of active southerly winds that may exceed 40 kilometres per hour, causing dust, sand, and reduced visibility on desert roads.
The Jufra region is expected to record the highest temperatures, possibly exceeding 47°C. The ministry said strong southwesterly winds could reach between 50 and 55 kilometres per hour, raising the risk of severe visibility disruption and increasing the danger of fires in farms and dry grassland due to extreme heat and dry conditions.
The heatwave is also expected to affect the oasis areas, the Oil Crescent, and the Benghazi Plain, where temperatures may rise above 40°C. Winds from the south and southwest could reach around 35 kilometres per hour, creating hot, dry, and dusty conditions. The impact is expected to be less severe in the Green Mountain region.
Western coastal areas, however, are forecast to see relatively stable weather, with moderate northerly winds and temperatures remaining within normal levels.
The ministry urged citizens to limit travel on Friday and Saturday, especially in areas affected by dust. It also called for precautionary measures and greater readiness by agricultural authorities and relevant bodies to respond to possible fires and weather-related disruptions.