Egypt will experience marked winter conditions on Thursday 1 January 2026, with the Egyptian Meteorological Authority warning of severe cold during the early morning, intermittent daytime warmth and a return to cold at night. Drivers and mariners are advised to take precautions after forecasts signalled dense morning fog, scattered rain and strong winds across several regions.
Egypt weather forecast: Dense morning fog and travel warnings
The authority said dense water-based fog is likely to form on many rural and fast roads, and on routes close to inland water bodies. The fog is expected between roughly 03:00 and 10:00, particularly on roads into and out of the northern governorates, across Greater Cairo, northern Upper Egypt and central Sinai. In some localities the fog may reach near-zero visibility, requiring motorists to reduce speed and keep distance from other vehicles.
Scattered rain expected across northern and central areas
Showers are forecast intermittently across parts of the northern coasts and the northern Delta, where moderate rain may fall and intensify at times. Light to occasionally moderate rain is also possible over southern Delta towns and the Suez Canal cities. The Meteorological Authority put the chance of light showers over Greater Cairo and north Upper Egypt at about 20 per cent during intervals of the day.
Strong winds and maritime disruption
Northerly winds will increase the cold sensation and may gust strongly across the northern coast, the Delta, Greater Cairo and southern Sinai. Wind speeds are expected between 40 and 60 kilometres per hour. The same winds will cause rough seas in parts of the Mediterranean off the Egyptian coast, with wave heights of two to 3.5 metres. The authority specifically highlighted navigation difficulties off Mersa Matruh, Alamein, Alexandria and along the Beheira, Kafr El Sheikh, Dakahlia, Damietta, Port Said and Al Arish coasts.
Temperatures and practical advice
Forecast maximum and minimum temperatures for Thursday include:
- Greater Cairo: high 21°C, low 13°C
- Alexandria: high 22°C, low 11°C
- Mersa Matruh: high 20°C, low 12°C
- Sohag: high 22°C, low 8°C
- Qena: high 24°C, low 8°C
- Aswan: high 24°C, low 10°C
The Meteorological Authority urged citizens to wear warm clothing, especially in the early hours and at night, and to follow safety measures when driving through fog-affected areas. Motorists should use low-beam lights, allow extra stopping distance, and avoid sudden lane changes. Fishermen and commercial vessels were cautioned to consider postponing short coastal trips until conditions improve and to monitor navigational warnings.
Residents are encouraged to follow updated bulletins from the Meteorological Authority, which may issue further advisories if conditions shift. The combination of dense fog, gusty winds and patchy rain means disruptions to road and maritime travel are possible during the day.
Key Takeaways:
- Egypt weather forecast expects severe cold in early hours with dense morning fog affecting major roads.
- Scattered rain of varying intensity likely on northern coasts, Nile Delta and parts of the Canal cities.
- Strong northerly winds will raise the chill factor and cause rough seas with wave heights up to 3.5 metres.
- Authorities urge heavy clothing and caution when driving; maritime navigation may be disrupted on parts of the Mediterranean coast.
