Iran prepares for El Niño and potential heavy rainfall

Iran's Minister of Energy, Abbas Aliabadi, has issued a warning regarding the approaching El Niño phenomenon, emphasizing the need for national preparedness to mitigate potential damage from heavy rainfall. Speaking during the inauguration of five power plant units in Lorestan, Aliabadi noted that while it may be impossible to prevent all damages, proactive measures are essential.

Experts suggest that while recent heavy rains in northern Iran were likely caused by regional synoptic patterns rather than El Niño directly, models indicate a strong El Niño phase is expected this autumn and winter. This phenomenon could shift atmospheric belts, potentially increasing rainfall in provinces such as Khuzestan, Fars, Lorestan, and Kermanshah. However, academics warn that this may manifest as intense, short-term precipitation, increasing the risk of flash floods and runoff due to decreased soil permeability.