Forecasters Can Be Fined EGP 5 Million for Getting the Weather Wrong

If you’re a forecaster, you better triple check your charts because if you spread misinformation about the weather, you may be hit with a fine from EGP 100 thousand to EGP 5 million.

The Egyptian Cabinet approved a draft bill that will apply to individuals and entities who spread false forecasts without a licence, including on social media platforms. The new law will generally regulate the public circulation of weather forecasts, and ensure meteorological stations and weather forecast centres are licensed by the Egyptian Meteorological Authority. The law will also allow the authority to maintain international standards for meteorological equipment.

The fine will also apply to anyone who misattributes their forecasts to the Egyptian Meteorological Authority, or purchases unfit equipment.