Algeria's National Meteorological Office has placed 22 provinces under orange alert as intense rainfall of up to 40 mm is forecast from Thursday, with precipitation expected to continue into Friday morning, raising concerns over local disruption.
Algeria's National Meteorological Office (ONM) has issued an orange-level weather alert for 22 provinces, warning of intense rainfall beginning Thursday, 20 August 2026. The alert covers a broad swathe of the country from the west to the centre, with some areas expected to receive up to 40 mm of rain. The precipitation is forecast to persist into Friday morning, prompting authorities to urge heightened vigilance.
The ONM has released three separate special weather bulletins (BMS), each targeting different regions and timeframes. The first bulletin applies to Tlemcen, Aïn Témouchent, Oran, Mostaganem, Sidi Bel Abbès, Saïda, and Mascara, where rainfall totals could reach between 20 and 40 mm. This alert is valid from 3:00 to 18:00 on Thursday, with the heaviest downpours expected in the early hours and a gradual easing by late afternoon.
Rainfall Timings and Regional Impact
The second BMS covers Chlef, Tipaza, Relizane, Aïn Defla, Tissemsilt, Tiaret, Naâma, and El Bayadh. In these provinces, rainfall is forecast to range from 20 to 30 mm, with the alert active from 12:00 on Thursday until 3:00 on Friday. Residents in these areas are advised to remain cautious throughout the afternoon and evening, as showers may extend into the night.
The third bulletin targets the central provinces of Alger, Boumerdès, Tizi Ouzou, Béjaïa, Blida, Médéa, and Bouira. Here, rainfall is also expected to reach 20 to 30 mm, with the orange alert in effect from 18:00 on Thursday until 6:00 on Friday. This places much of the central region under surveillance during the evening and overnight hours.
Authorities Urge Vigilance Amid Potential Disruption
With the prospect of significant rainfall accumulations, particularly in western provinces, the ONM has called on residents and local authorities to remain alert to possible flooding and transport disruption. The staggered timing of the alerts reflects the varying onset and duration of the weather system across different regions. While the rainfall is expected to ease by Friday morning, the risk of localised impacts remains, especially in areas prone to flooding or with vulnerable infrastructure.
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to follow official guidance and take precautions as the weather system moves across the affected provinces.
