The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather for Tuesday, indicating continued weather fluctuations affecting various regions of the Kingdom. This report is part of the ongoing monitoring of weather changes to ensure the safety of citizens and residents and to advise them to take precautions while traveling.
Weather conditions and active winds details
The report indicated that weather maps show significant surface wind activity, which is expected to stir up dust and sand, potentially reducing horizontal visibility on highways and in open areas. This weather pattern will affect large parts of the Najran, Riyadh, Qassim, Hail, and Northern Borders . Such weather phenomena are part of the Kingdom's typical climate, as surface winds are usually active due to differences in atmospheric pressure between various regions.
Rain and fog forecast
Conversely, the National Center for Meteorology did not rule out the possibility of light rain that could moderate the weather in parts of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha , extending to the highlands of the Makkah . The report also noted the potential for fog formation during the early morning and late night hours in parts of these regions, as well as along the coastal areas of the Eastern Province , urging drivers to maintain safe distances.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the sea conditions, the report provided a detailed account of wave and wind movement:
- Red Sea: Surface winds are shifting from northwesterly to northeasterly in the northern and central parts, with speeds ranging from 10 to 30 km/h, while in the southern part they are southeasterly to easterly, reaching speeds of up to 38 km/h, and may intensify to 50 km/h towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Wave heights range from half a meter to one and a half meters, and may reach two and a half meters in the south, resulting in moderate to rough sea conditions.
- Arabian Gulf: Surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly, turning northeasterly and southeasterly in the afternoon at a speed of 10-32 km/h, with wave heights ranging between half a meter and one and a half meters, and the sea state will be light to moderate.
The importance of following weather forecasts
These reports are of paramount importance given the vast geographical diversity of Saudi Arabia, where weather phenomena can vary from region to region even at the same time. Dust-laden winds directly affect those with respiratory conditions, necessitating adherence to health guidelines and avoidance of direct exposure to dust. These forecasts also play a crucial role in planning land and sea travel, and assist relevant authorities such as Civil Defense and Highway Patrol in enhancing their preparedness to respond to any emergencies that may arise from reduced visibility or rainfall.
