BEIRUT: This weekend’s wintry weather allowed skiers to hit the slopes in the north and closed ports in the south, and experts say more of the same is to be expected throughout the week.

As skiers took to the snowy mountains in the country’s ski resorts, harsh weather led to a stop Sunday in maritime traffic and fishing at Sidon’s port, where winds reached their highest speeds yet this winter.

Wave heights surpassed 6 meters in some places, and flooded the courtyard of Sidon’s sea castle. The waves also splashed over the rails and onto the sidewalks of the city’s new seaside corniche.

Heavy rain was observed on the coast and in nearby areas, and valleys were flooded. Temperatures decreased noticeably in mountain areas.

Authorities at Rafik Hariri International Airport’s meteorology department told The Daily Star that Monday will be cloudy with scattered rains and strong winds reaching up to 50 kph. Rain will abate in the afternoon and evening. Snow will fall starting at 1,300 meters above sea level in the country’s northern and interior regions.

Monday’s coastal temperatures will range from 12 to 18 degrees Celsius. In the Cedars temperatures will range from 3 to 4, and in the interior from 1 to 14 degrees.

Tuesday’s weather is set to be clear with an increase in temperature, but the authorities warn to keep an eye out for ice on mountain roads in the early morning hours. Wind speeds will range between 10 and 35 kph, increasing at night to up to 70 kph

Wednesday’s low atmospheric pressure will come with thunderstorms, and snow will begin falling at 1,100 meters above sea level. Thunderstorms and snow will continue Thursday, and Thursday night snow will fall from 800 meters above sea level and up.

Stormy weather is expected to continue Friday with rain and strong winds, but airport authorities say the weekend will bring a respite with improved weather expected for Saturday.