Weather warning: Dense fog and reduced visibility in 7 regions of the Kingdom
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an important weather alert for the early morning hours of Thursday, indicating that large parts of the Kingdom will be affected by fog of varying intensity. This report is part of the center's ongoing monitoring of weather fluctuations to ensure the safety of citizens and residents.
Weather details and reduced visibility
The weather report indicated that fog, ranging from light to moderate to dense, is expected, directly impacting horizontal visibility. Visibility is forecast to drop to between 3 and 5 kilometers in some areas, while it may reach near-zero visibility (1 to 3 kilometers) in others. This necessitates caution, especially for those using highways and open roads.
Affected areas and cities
The alert covered 7 main areas, where fog is expected to cover the following cities and provinces:
- The Eastern Province includes Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, and Abqaiq. These areas are among the most affected by the high humidity levels coming from the Arabian Gulf.
- Riyadh region: The fog extends to include the capital, Riyadh, in addition to Al-Hariq, Al-Kharj, Al-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiya, Hawtat Bani Tamim, and Al-Diriyah.
- Tabuk region: Both the city of Tabuk and Tayma are affected.
- Jazan region: The alert includes Al-Harth, Al-Dayer, Al-Raith, Al-Ardah, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, and Haroub.
- Asir region: Highlands and cities such as Al Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, Abha, Ahad Rafidah, and Khamis Mushait are affected.
- Al-Jawf region: Dumat Al-Jandal, Sakaka, Al-Qurayyat, and Tabarjal.
- Northern borders: Tarif, Rafha, Al-Uwaiqilah, and Arar.
The importance of warnings and safety guidelines
These warnings are of paramount importance given the direct impact of fog on road traffic and navigation. Authorities, such as the General Directorate of Traffic and Road Security, typically advise drivers to reduce their speed according to road conditions, use fog lights, and avoid high beams, which can impair visibility due to reflections on water droplets suspended in the air. Drivers are also advised to maintain a safe following distance.
The role of the National Center for Meteorology
The National Center for Meteorology operates according to the latest international standards in weather monitoring and observation, utilizing radar and satellite technologies to provide accurate information that contributes to protecting lives and property. These proactive reports are an essential part of the Kingdom's public safety system, as vital sectors such as education, transportation, and agriculture rely on them for their daily decision-making, especially during seasonal transitions when volatile weather phenomena are more frequent.
