Snow and hail damage crops, block multiple roads across Lebanon
Image credit: Ric Mtr
Snow and hail hit parts of Lebanon on April 21, 2019, blocking multiple roads and damaging crops across the country.
Cedars recorded 40 cm (15.7 inches), leaving farmers worried that fruit-bearing trees will be damaged if temperatures drop further, The Daily Star reported.
5 to 20 cm (1.9 – 7.8 inches) of snow accumulated in Rashaya and Western Bekaa at an altitude of 900 m (2 950 feet), damaging many greenhouses and trapping cattle.
Snow cut off the towns of Shebaa and Kfar Shuba in the country's south with 15 – 25 cm (5.9 – 9.8 inches) of snow while heavy rain caused Hasbani and Wazzani rivers to overflow.
Snow covered most of the towns above 1 100 m (3 600 feet) in Dinnieh, northern Lebanon, causing agricultural damage, especially to pear, apple and cherry trees.
Meteorology Department said cold temperatures are expected to last until April 22, when temperatures will start rising but remain below average.
The Watchers team and our contributors bring the latest on extreme weather, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, space weather, and all things science. We're all about making sense of the natural world and keeping you informed on what’s happening. Got a tip or a question? Hit us up using the form at newstips!
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.