Lowest temperatures in Saudi Arabia today: Al Qurayyat and Tarif, 4 degrees Celsius

Northern regions of Saudi Arabia, specifically the governorates of Al-Qurayyat and Tarif, witnessed a noticeable drop in temperatures during the early morning hours of Wednesday, with the two cities topping the list of the coldest regions, recording 4 degrees Celsius, according to official data issued by the National Center for Meteorology.

List of the coldest cities in the Kingdom

The National Center of Meteorology's weather report indicated that the cold wave directly affected the northern and northwestern regions, and the lowest recorded temperatures were ranked as follows:

• Al Qurayyat: 4 degrees Celsius.
• Tarif: 4 degrees Celsius.
• Tabuk: 5 degrees Celsius.
• Hail: 8 degrees Celsius.
• Sakaka: 8 degrees Celsius.

Geographical and climatic background of the northern regions

The northern border provinces, particularly Tarif and Qurayyat, are the primary gateway for cold air masses arriving from Siberia and Eastern Europe via the Levant. These regions are characterized by their open desert geography and high altitude, making them susceptible to significant temperature fluctuations. Winters in these areas are among the lowest in the Arabian Peninsula, and Tarif has historically recorded record-breaking sub-zero temperatures in previous seasons, earning it the title of "coldest Saudi city" in many past winters.

Effects of the cold wave and safety recommendations

This drop in temperatures coincides with ongoing warnings from relevant authorities, such as the Civil Defense and the National Center for Meteorology, urging caution. These warnings include the possibility of fog formation, which could reduce horizontal visibility, particularly in the early morning hours and on highways connecting these governorates.

Raising awareness about the dangers of traditional heating methods (such as coal and firewood) is also increasingly important in these conditions, as residents resort to heating to cope with the bitter cold. This necessitates constant reminders about the importance of ventilating spaces to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Fluctuations in temperature are expected to continue in the coming days, requiring regular monitoring of official weather forecasts to plan outdoor activities and ensure appropriate clothing for schoolchildren and the elderly.