Cold weather is expected across Egypt in the week leading up to the New Year and on the first day of 2017, Egypt’s Meteorological Authority said in a statement on Monday.

On Tuesday, temperatures in Cairo will reach daytime highs of 15 degrees Celsius and night lows of 9 degrees.

Heavy rains are expected along the northern coast on Tuesday while medium rains are expected in Cairo and in northern Upper Egypt.

The cold spell should subside briefly on Wednesday 28 December but will be in full force on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.   

The cold spell is expected to break on Monday 2 January.

The Meteorological Authority warns drivers against early morning fogs that could impair vision.

It also warned of high waves in the Mediterranean and Red Sea and possible difficulties in maritime navigation.