Saudi Arabia weather forecast for Sunday: Rain, fog, and dust-raising winds

The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued its daily report on the expected weather conditions for this Sunday, in which the center warned of weather fluctuations including rainfall, activity in surface winds that stir up dust and sand, in addition to a decrease in horizontal visibility due to fog in several regions.

Weather details and affected areas

According to the meteorological statement, there remains a chance of light rain in scattered areas of the western and southwestern highlands of the Kingdom. This forecast coincides with active surface winds that will stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility across large parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, Hail, and Madinah regions.

The effects of the active winds also extend to the western parts of the Riyadh region and the eastern parts of the Makkah, Al-Baha, and Asir regions. In a related matter, the center warned of fog formation during the night and early morning hours, which may negatively impact visibility in parts of the aforementioned regions, as well as parts of the Jazan and Eastern regions.

The geographical and climatic context of the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia is characterized by a wide topographical diversity that directly influences its climatic patterns. While the northern and central regions experience fluctuations due to low-pressure systems originating from the Mediterranean or the north, the southern and western highlands (the Sarawat Mountains) enjoy a different climate that allows for the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and frequent rainfall. These weather phenomena, such as dust and fog, are a natural part of the weather in desert and semi-desert regions, especially during the transitional periods between seasons.

The importance of warnings and their impact on public safety

These reports are of paramount importance to citizens and residents, as weather conditions directly impact travel between cities. Dust-laden winds not only reduce visibility for drivers on highways but can also have health consequences for those with respiratory conditions. Furthermore, fog warnings always necessitate caution while driving in the early morning hours to ensure public safety.

State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf

Regarding the maritime situation, the center provided the following details:

• Red Sea: Surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly in the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southerly in the southern part, with speeds ranging from 15 to 30 km/h. Wave height will range from half a meter to one and a half meters, and sea conditions will be slight to moderate.
• Arabian Gulf: Surface winds are active northwesterly at a speed of 15 to 30 km/h, with wave heights ranging from half a meter to one and a half meters, and the sea state is light to moderate.