Monday, 25 May 2026
Minister: Egypt faces unprecedented geologic, climatic shifts
Egypt’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Yasmine Fouad, warned that Egypt is currently experiencing “unprecedented” geological and climate changes, underscoring a new urgency in the country’s approach to disaster preparedness.
In an interview with prominent TV host Sherif Amer on “Yahduth Fi Misr” (Happening in Egypt) on MBC Masr, Dr. Fouad explained that the recent spike in earthquake activity across Egypt reflects “abnormal seismic behavior,” with the country experiencing earthquakes “that we have not faced before.”
She said Egypt is now on the threshold of a genuine seismic risk zone—“at the beginning of danger”—and called for ongoing, enhanced readiness.
Dr. Fouad noted that while earthquakes are not directly linked to climate change, “rising sea levels could accelerate the frequency of such events,” signaling the importance of considering both geological and climatic shifts in national planning. She also highlighted a subtle interplay between certain climate and geologic phenomena, driving increased unpredictability.
Echoing global climate trends, Dr. Fouad described how Egypt is witnessing “more frequent and intense weather events,” ranging from torrential rains and flash floods to unseasonal droughts and severe storms. “We now have a comprehensive national plan to address these changes,” she said, outlining the existence of a dedicated crisis management department within the government. This unit includes detailed protocols and clear divisions of responsibility for responding to a wide array of natural and climate-related scenarios.
Highlighting recent approaches to risk management, Dr. Fouad stated, “If necessary, we are prepared to close schools or certain facilities in the face of severe storms or high pollution. We have the ability to make these decisions promptly to protect public safety.”
The Minister also stressed the critical role of early warning systems in preempting and minimizing the impact of both seismic events and extreme weather, urging a “proactive and coordinated” response.
Dr. Fouad’s comments come amid a pattern of intensifying environmental volatility reported across the wider Middle East and North Africa, fueling experts’ calls for regional cooperation and comprehensive adaptation strategies to safeguard communities and economies.