Sakaka is 3 degrees colder... List of the lowest temperatures in Saudi Arabia
Several regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia witnessed a noticeable drop in temperatures as winter cold waves intensified. The National Center for Meteorology revealed that the city of Sakaka recorded the lowest temperature in the Kingdom for this day, which reached only 3 degrees Celsius, indicating the actual entry into the peak of the winter season, which affects the northern regions and highlands in particular.
List of the least hot cities in the Kingdom
According to data released by the National Center of Meteorology, minimum temperatures recorded this morning varied, with northern regions experiencing the coldest temperatures, followed by mountainous areas. The coldest cities were ranked as follows:
- Sakaka: 3 degrees Celsius.
- Tabuk: 4 degrees Celsius.
- Hail: 5 degrees Celsius.
- Al-Qassim: 6 degrees Celsius.
- Tarif: 7 degrees Celsius.
- Taif: 7 degrees Celsius.
- Rafha: 7 degrees Celsius.
- Khamis Mushait: 7 degrees Celsius.
- Dawadmi: 7 degrees Celsius.
- Abha: 7 degrees Celsius.
The climatic and geographical context of the cold wave
These temperature drops are part of the typical winter weather patterns in Saudi Arabia, where northern regions (such as Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, and Tabuk) are affected by cold air masses from higher latitudes and polar regions, causing temperatures to reach near-freezing point Celsius and sometimes even below, especially in the early morning hours. In contrast, the lower temperatures in cities like Abha, Taif, and Khamis Mushait are due to their topography and altitude, which keeps them cool even when they are far from the direct northern air masses.
Weather warnings and effects
Alongside the drop in temperatures, the National Center of Meteorology issued warnings about accompanying weather phenomena. Reports indicated increased surface wind activity that could stir up dust and sand in some areas, leading to reduced horizontal visibility. These weather fluctuations are a prominent feature of the transitional period and the deepening of winter, requiring drivers to exercise extreme caution on highways and open roads.
Recommendations for dealing with cold weather
As this cold wave continues, experts advise wearing heavy winter clothing, especially for children and the elderly, and exercising caution when using various heating methods to ensure good ventilation and avoid suffocation. Farmers in northern regions are also advised to take necessary precautions to protect crops from the possibility of frost forming during the early morning hours, which could negatively affect cold-sensitive produce.
