Tunis: Four people died in Moknine, Monastir governorate, as torrential rains continue to batter Tunisia since Monday. Several regions, notably Greater Tunis, Nabeul, and Monastir, have been placed under a red weather alert, the highest level of meteorological warning.
According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, an orange alert remains in effect for Bizerte, Zaghouan, Sousse, Mahdia, and Sfax. The downpours, often accompanied by thunderstorms and hail, have delivered rainfall totals of up to 242 mm in Sayada-Lamta-Bou Hjar, 230 mm in Monastir, and 205 mm in El Mida (Nabeul).
These conditions, driven by Mediterranean storm 'Harry,' have triggered widespread flooding, flash floods, power outages, overflowing wadis, and major transport disruptions. Rail services, including the TGM line and suburban networks, as well as metro, city, and intercity bus operations, have been largely suspended, particularly in Greater Tunis, Sousse, Mahdia, and Nabeul.
The A1 motorway was temporarily closed at Bouargoub (km 34) due to flooding from Wadi Jedida but was reopened later. Numerous national and regional roads remain impassable. In response to the emergency, authorities suspended classes in several governorates-Ariana, Sousse, Mahdia, Nabeul, and Jendouba-and postponed court hearings in Tunis and Mahdia.
Several diplomatic missions, including the embassies of Germany, the Netherlands, Egypt, Canada, and the French Consulate General, closed their doors to the public. Civil protection services, operating around the clock, evacuated 15 individuals, pumped water from over 100 flooded homes, inspected 105 inundated roads, and recovered 109 stranded vehicles.
The Ministry of Social Affairs ordered the activation of emergency shelter centres and the reinforcement of strategic reserves. The severe weather stems from the expansion of Mediterranean low-pressure system 'Harry,' which is affecting southern Europe and the Maghreb. Over Tunisia, it is generating persistent thunderstorms, violent winds exceeding 90 km/h, and hail.
The National Institute of Meteorology (INM) forecasts a gradual easing of conditions from Tuesday evening onward. Citizens are urged to limit travel, avoid basements, wadis, and flood-prone areas, and strictly follow official guidance from authorities.