Bad weather grounds Luxor’s hot air balloon rides for third day running

Ahram Online , Sunday 28 May 2023

Dusty winds and unfavourable weather conditions have suspended hot air balloon rides in the southern Upper Egyptian city of Luxor for the third day in a row.

Luxor
hot air balloons fly over the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt. AP

 

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has instructed all balloon companies to suspend their rides scheduled for Sunday, as the strong winds are unsuitable for flying.

The Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA) has forecast reduced horizontal visibility for southern Upper Egypt due to the prevailing dust. Light to moderate rainfall is also expected in some areas of the region, the EMA said.

Egypt faced the brunt of the first significant Khamasin storm of the spring on Saturday, as it swept across various parts of the country. The storm's impact was felt from Assiut to Luxor in Upper Egypt, Marsa Matrouh to Alexandria and Greater Cairo in Lower Egypt, and even reached Sharm El-Sheikh in South Sinai. On Friday, dusty weather prevailed, with southeastern winds stirring up sand and dust in Upper Egypt.

Khamasin storms, renowned for their sandstorms, are a characteristic occurrence during the spring season in Morocco, Algeria, Libya, and Egypt.

Luxor, known for its numerous ancient temples and historical sites, is one of Egypt's major tourist destinations. Many visitors opt for early morning balloon rides to enjoy a fascinating bird's eye view of the city and its remarkable sights.

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