The National Center for Meteorology issued an important alert today for residents of the Al-Jawf region, warning of unstable weather conditions including strong winds and dust storms, urging caution. The alert covers the city of Sakaka and three other major governorates in the region, with these conditions expected to persist until 1:00 AM tomorrow, Wednesday.
The center explained in its detailed report that the weather conditions will directly affect the city of Sakaka and the governorates of Dumat al-Jandal, Tabuk, and Qurayyat. These conditions are characterized by strong surface winds that will stir up dust and sand, resulting in near-zero horizontal visibility, with the expected range between 1 and 3 kilometers. This requires special attention from drivers and highway users.
The importance of early warnings and the role of meteorology
These alerts are part of the National Center for Meteorology's ongoing efforts to monitor weather conditions and protect lives and property. The Al-Jawf region, due to its open geography and location in the north of the Kingdom, is periodically affected by low-pressure systems and air masses that cause strong winds. These warnings play a crucial role in enhancing the preparedness of relevant authorities and raising awareness among citizens and residents about dealing with changing weather conditions.
Effects of dusty weather and safety guidelines
Dust storms and blowing sand are common weather phenomena in desert regions, but their impact on public health and road safety can be significant. Experts advise following public safety guidelines in such conditions, including:
- Avoid high speeds while driving and leave sufficient distance between vehicles due to reduced visibility.
- Close windows and doors tightly to prevent dust from entering homes.
- Patients with respiratory conditions, asthma, and allergies are advised to avoid going out in open spaces except when absolutely necessary, and to wear protective masks.
Climate in Al-Jawf region
The Al-Jawf region is characterized by a continental desert climate, with cold winters and hot summers. Winds are typically active during the transitional periods between seasons. These active winds contribute to dust storms due to the nature of the soil in the surrounding areas, making it essential to follow weather forecasts for planning daily activities and traveling between governorates safely.
