Tunisia Experiences Unusual and Violent Weather Conditions
Tunisia has faced particularly violent and unusual weather conditions during the winter of 2026, marked by strong winds that were more frequent than normal, especially on Thursday, February 12, and to a lesser extent, on Sunday, February 15. These episodes could illustrate the intensification of extreme climate phenomena linked to climate change, according to Jamil Hajri, a university professor and climate researcher. In a statement to the TAP agency, the specialist questioned the materialization of climate projections announcing an increase in extreme events. "The situations we are observing today confirm that these scenarios are no longer just theoretical," he estimated.
Exceptional Atmospheric Configuration
The professor explained that the winter atmospheric circulation in Tunisia is generally dominated by a westerly flow, controlled by two major centers of action: the Azores anticyclone and the Icelandic depression. However, this dynamic has exceptionally transformed into a meridional circulation, coming from the north, following the displacement of certain seasonal pressure centers. Thus, on February 12, in addition to the active Azores anticyclone, a very deep atmospheric depression, reaching 979 millibars, was positioned west of Warsaw, Poland. This configuration generated a strong pressure gradient, accelerating winds and generating violent and particularly cold currents from northern Europe. A similar situation was observed on Sunday, February 15, which, according to the climatologist, confirms an increase in the frequency of north-south circulations at the expense of the usual westerly flow.
Growing Impacts on Development
For the expert, the effects of climate change now represent a major risk for the country's development, particularly due to their impact on water resources. He estimates that Tunisia must gradually engage in a low-carbon development model, capable of adapting to new climate realities. In this perspective, he recommends that the national climate strategy by 2050 be based on two essential pillars: improving scientific knowledge of the climate and establishing effective governance.
Strengthening Climate Research and Governance
Climate projections for Tunisia currently rely on international models based on variable hypotheses depending on the region. The researcher therefore emphasizes the importance of deepening knowledge of local climate trends and extreme phenomena to improve the accuracy of these forecasts. He also advocates for defining sectoral research priorities and strengthening vulnerability studies, as part of a multi-sectoral and territorial approach. In terms of governance, he insists on the need to sustainably integrate climate issues into development planning and resource management, with the participation of multiple actors beyond the state.
Towards a Culture of Risk Management
Professor Hajri concludes that extreme weather phenomena now constitute a lasting characteristic of the Tunisian climate. Faced with this new reality, he calls for a profound change in behavior, based on greater environmental awareness and anticipatory policies. This includes strengthening alert systems, preparing for recurring storms and floods, and disseminating a true culture of prevention, particularly among the most vulnerable populations. According to him, adapting to extreme climate events is no longer an option, but an urgent necessity to limit the risks of future catastrophes. Read also: Up to 70 km/h gusts: vigilance on the coast and heights
