The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather , indicating stable and calm conditions across most of the Kingdom, promising a suitable day for various outdoor activities in most cities. However, the center also warned of specific weather phenomena requiring attention in other areas, particularly during the night and early morning hours.
Weather details and areas affected by fog
The report indicated that stable weather conditions prevail today, but the possibility of fog remains, which could reduce horizontal visibility. Areas affected by this phenomenon include parts of the highlands and coastal regions, specifically:
- Makkah region.
- Al-Baha region.
- Asir region.
- Jazan region.
- The southern parts of the Eastern Province.
This report comes as part of the center’s ongoing monitoring of weather fluctuations and its efforts to protect lives and property through early warnings.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime traffic and fishing, the report detailed the situation in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf as follows:
Red Sea
- Surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly in the northern part, shifting to southeasterly to southwesterly in the central and southern parts. Wind speeds will range from 12 to 35 km/h, potentially reaching 45 km/h towards the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
- Wave height: It ranges between half a meter and one and a half meters, and may reach two meters towards the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
- Sea conditions: described as light to moderate waves.
Arabian Gulf
- Surface winds: Stable northwesterly winds with speeds ranging from 10 to 28 km/h.
- Wave height: from half a meter to one meter.
- Sea conditions: Light waves, making it suitable for normal marine activities.
The climate context in the Kingdom and the importance of meteorology
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is characterized by a wide geographical diversity that directly influences its weather patterns . While arid desert conditions prevail in the central and northern regions, the southwestern highlands (such as Asir and Al-Baha) enjoy a temperate and humid climate that fosters the formation of fog and low clouds, particularly during transitional periods and winter. The National Center of Meteorology is the official body authorized to issue these reports, relying on a vast network of radars and monitoring stations to provide accurate information that serves the aviation, maritime navigation, and agricultural sectors, as well as the general public.
Public safety recommendations
Due to the expected fog, traffic safety experts advise drivers in the aforementioned regions (Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, and the Eastern Province) to exercise caution, use fog lights, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles to avoid accidents caused by poor visibility. Those venturing out to sea in the southern Red Sea are also advised to monitor weather forecasts due to the potential for high waves near Bab al-Mandab.
