Libya is set to temporarily close down four major oil ports, including Ras Lanuf, Al-Zuwaytinah, Al-Brega, and Es Sider, for a three-day period starting Saturday evening. This move comes in anticipation of an impending cyclone, according to engineers in the country’s oil sector, as reported by Reuters.
The Libyan Government of National Unity announced a curfew that will be in effect from Saturday evening until the following Monday in preparation for anticipated storms and rainfall.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Interior, led by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbaibah, the curfew will begin after 8 p.m. on Saturday. The statement also called for the evacuation of coastal areas and the closure of all businesses adjacent to the Libyan coast and low-lying areas near the valleys.
The ministry urged citizens to comply with the security and humanitarian measures by evacuating their homes and cooperating with the armed forces, the Ministry of Interior, humanitarian organizations, the Libyan Red Crescent, and the Ministry of Health.
The decision to temporarily close the oil ports is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of both personnel and equipment during the cyclone. Libya’s oil industry plays a crucial role in its economy, and any disruptions to its operations can have significant economic implications.
This closure underscores the importance of preparedness and safety measures in a region susceptible to extreme weather events. The Libyan authorities are taking proactive steps to mitigate the potential impact of the cyclone, and citizens are encouraged to heed official guidance and cooperate with emergency response agencies to ensure their safety and well-being.
