The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather report for Friday , indicating continued weather fluctuations affecting several regions of the Kingdom. The report explained that weather maps showed surface winds stirring up dust and sand, as well as conditions favorable for dense fog formation, urging caution from citizens and residents, especially those traveling on highways and in open areas.
Weather details and affected areas
According to a statement issued by the center, the impact of active winds that reduce horizontal visibility due to dust and sandstorms will be primarily concentrated in the northern parts of the Kingdom. This weather condition includes parts of the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders . These warnings come as part of the relevant authorities' commitment to the safety of those using the highways connecting these governorates, as such conditions typically lead to a significant decrease in visibility.
In contrast, other regions are experiencing a different weather phenomenon: fog formation during the early morning and late night hours. The report indicated that fog will cover parts of the southwestern and western highlands, specifically in the Jazan, Asir, and Al- , extending its influence to parts of the Makkah . The center also did not rule out fog formation in parts of the Eastern Province , which could affect land and sea navigation in those coastal areas.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the sea conditions, the center provided a detailed breakdown of wave and wind movements, with the following forecast:
- The Red Sea: Northwesterly to northerly surface winds prevail in the northern and central parts, with speeds ranging from 10 to 25 km/h. In the southern part, winds shift to southeasterly to southerly, reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Wave heights range from half a meter to one and a half meters, potentially exceeding two meters towards the strait, resulting in rough sea conditions in that area.
- Arabian Gulf: Surface winds will be southeasterly to easterly at a speed of 15-35 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 warnings and their overall impact
These reports are crucial in guiding residents' daily activities, as early warnings help reduce traffic accidents caused by poor visibility due to dust or fog. Weather experts always advise avoiding high speeds, using fog lights, and staying away from areas with strong winds to avoid flying debris in such conditions.
