Alert: Severe Weather Expected in Mongolia’s Central and Eastern Provinces May 16-20

Alert: Severe Weather Expected in Mongolia’s Central and Eastern Provinces May 16-20

Mongolia’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has issued a severe weather warning covering the period between May 16 and 20.  NEMA expects high winds to begin in the city of Ulaanbaatar beginning at 12:00 p.m., May 16.

The weather system is expected to bring rain, snow, and severe winds.  Winds of up to 45 MPH (20 m/s) are expected in the central provinces including Ulaanbaatar proper May 16-17.  Eastern provinces should expect the same weather May 18-20.  Steppe regions can expect winds of up to 58 MPH (26 m/s).

Roads in Sukhbaatar and Khentii provinces have been closed indefinitely due to the approaching weather system.

You should exercise caution when venturing outside during this period and should avoid travel to Sukhbaatar and Khentii provinces.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather (NWS) service advises that in high winds blowing objects pose a significant threat to your safety.  You are encouraged to review the NWS’ safety guidelines for when severe wind events occur at: https://www.weather.gov/safety/wind-during.

The U.S. Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service that allows the Embassy to provide important information about safety conditions and help contact you in an emergency.  https://step.state.gov/step/