The Iranian Meteorological Organization has issued significant weather alerts as a new storm system is set to affect large portions of the country, particularly the Alborz mountain range and the provinces of Tehran, Qazvin, and some areas in the central and southern parts of Iran. Following several days of polluted air, Thursday, March 20, 2025, will witness a change in weather, transitioning to partly cloudy skies with potential rain.
According to reports from Hammihan Online, the forecast indicates that the province of Tehran will experience cloudy skies on March 19, followed by strong winds and possible thunderstorms beginning on the following day. The storm system is expected to lead to rainfall with instances of thunder and lightning from March 20 until March 30, which is a welcome change given the recent air pollution.
The General Department of Meteorology has further clarified that the storm system is not only limited to Tehran but is also anticipated to bring severe weather to western, southwestern, and southern regions, including areas of Isfahan, Shiraz, and Bushehr. Rainfall and potential flooding are likely to occur, particularly along the Caspian Sea coast in the provinces of Gilan and Ardabil. The report highlights, "Warnings have been issued regarding possible flash floods in the northern areas towards the coasts of the Caspian Sea, especially in Gilan and Ardabil." This poses a serious concern for residents in those areas, especially considering the time of year when snowmelt could exacerbate flooding risks.
On Friday, March 21, the forecast predicts partly cloudy to cloudy conditions in Tehran, with rain expected to intermittently fall throughout the day. Morning temperatures are expected to drop to around 15 degrees Celsius, while the highs will reach up to 23 degrees. For the higher altitudes, temperatures will be significantly lower, with a minimum of 12 degrees and a maximum of 21 degrees. The coldest area in the past 24 hours was reported as Tochal, recording a brisk low of -4 degrees Celsius, according to the meteorological department.
The report also outlines the potential for stormy weather over the weekend. Starting on Friday through Sunday (March 21-23), the region will see continued rain, thunderstorms, and high winds. The situation is compounded with warnings for heavy snow in the Alborz and Zagros mountain ranges. "The organization is also managing snow, cold, frost, and wind in the west, southwest, and southern regions of the country, as well as in the Alborz and Zagros mountains," the meteorologists emphasized.
Looking beyond the immediate forecast, meteorologists urge the public to remain vigilant as these storm conditions develop. As Suvad Ziaiyan, head of the National Center for Weather Forecasting and Disaster Management, explained, "From Friday to Sunday (March 21-23), colder temperatures are expected across the northern provinces, particularly in the Caspian Sea regions where rainfall will be prominent."
The weather system will continue to critically affect daily life and travel conditions, especially in the northern coastal areas. ISCAnews reported that by March 22, the threat of flash floods will escalate as warmer temperatures cause snowmelt, particularly in the provinces near the Caspian Sea. The weather department is monitoring conditions closely and has issued a public safety message advising residents of affected regions to prepare for possible evacuations if necessary.
As the system moves southward over the coming days, it could lead to heavy precipitation across other parts of the country, including Yazd, Kerman, Bushehr, and southwestern provinces, where authorities are also preparing for adverse weather conditions. Ziaiyan warned, "The following week could present challenges with continued rain across various parts of the country. Therefore, it is critical to remain informed and prepared.”
Travelers and locals are advised to check weather updates frequently, pack accordingly, and heed local advisories as they will be crucial in navigating upcoming challenges posed by this storm system.
In summary, the anticipated weather events promise to bring much-needed precipitation but will also pose challenges, such as potential flooding and stormy weather, especially in vulnerable areas. With this fluctuating climate, a proactive approach from both authorities and residents will be vital to ensuring safety through these transitions.
