The storm "Farah" struck Lebanon after a long wait, as December and January passed without heavy rainfall or snowfall, leading to concerns over groundwater depletion and water shortages. This storm is considered the first and harshest so far, having receded while leaving behind cold and frost, with another harsher storm expected on Saturday, with snow levels approaching 700 meters.
How is the Bekaa Valley preparing for the weekend storm? Bekaa Governor Judge Kamal Abu Jaoudeh indicates that there are prior preparations and full readiness to welcome the storm in the Bekaa, stating, "We do not wait for the storm or disaster to carry out our work." He affirms, in a conversation with MTV, that confronting the storm involves coordination with local leadership, as well as communication with the mayors of Rashaya and Western Bekaa, the Civil Defense, security forces, the regional Red Cross office, the regional works department, the social affairs department, the agriculture department, municipalities in the governorate, and all directly concerned parties, along with the National News Agency office.
Abu Jaoudeh continues that this readiness and preparation includes salting roads, securing diesel fuel, maintaining snow-clearing vehicles and equipment, and prior cleaning of channels and roads by municipalities, in addition to coordination between the Bekaa and Mount Lebanon governorates and the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, synchronized decision-making, and road closures when necessary with the support of the Ministry of Public Works and relevant authorities.
He adds that the Ministry of Public Works and the municipalities are fulfilling their duties by clearing snow and opening roads, working tirelessly despite limited resources and the challenging economic situation. He emphasizes that the Bekaa Operations Room and the Disaster Risk Management Committee hold meetings during emergencies to anticipate and mitigate any unforeseen disasters that may occur.
Moreover, citizens are prohibited from engaging in off-road activities during the storm due to the associated dangers, in order to ensure public safety for citizens and the safety of security forces, civil defense, and the Red Cross, with legal and criminal penalties for violations.
Abu Jaoudeh concludes by saying, "We are responsible, and it is our duty to be alongside the people, and the people must assist us and respond to us." He also urges citizens to "exercise caution and adhere to security forces' instructions, avoiding mountain roads unless absolutely necessary and in emergency situations, to ensure their safety and the safety of others."
