The National Center of Meteorology warns of a widespread fog wave
Amid the fluctuating weather conditions currently affecting Saudi Arabia, the National Center for Meteorology issued a detailed report warning of expected weather patterns. Forecasts indicate the formation of fog of varying intensity, reaching dense fog levels, across large parts of eight administrative regions in the Kingdom. These warnings are part of the Center's ongoing efforts to monitor weather phenomena and alert citizens and residents to ensure their safety.
The climatic context and the impact of topography in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia boasts a unique geographical and climatic diversity, ranging from its coastal regions to its mountainous highlands and desert areas. With the onset of seasonal transitions and the drop in temperatures, the likelihood of fog formation increases, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours. Historically, the southwestern highlands and the eastern and western coastal regions have been the most susceptible to this phenomenon due to high humidity and rapid cooling of the land surface. This climatic variation is a characteristic feature of the Arabian Peninsula's weather patterns during the autumn and winter seasons.
The impact of dense fog on horizontal visibility and daily life
The report issued by the National Center of Meteorology indicated that the current fog wave will begin in the early morning hours and continue until 8:00 AM on Tuesday. This weather condition is accompanied by near-zero horizontal visibility, dropping to between 1 and 3 kilometers in some areas, and reaching 1 kilometer or less in areas experiencing dense fog. This sharp decrease in visibility necessitates extreme caution, especially for highway users and intercity travelers, as it directly impacts traffic flow and public safety. Its effects may extend to delays in some land journeys or affect maritime and air traffic.
Places and areas covered by fog alerts
The weather report included a detailed breakdown of the cities and governorates that will be affected by this weather condition in 8 main regions, which are as follows:
- Eastern Province: Includes Jubail, Khobar, Khafji, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, and Ras Tanura.
- Riyadh Region: Includes Al-Aflaj, As-Sulayyil, Wadi Ad-Dawasir, Ad-Dawadmi, Ar-Rayn, Al-Quway'iyah, Afif, Ad-Diriyah, Riyadh (the capital), Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dhurma, Marat, Al-Hariq, Al-Kharj, Ad-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiyah, and Hawtat Bani Tamim.
- Makkah Region: Includes Adham, Maysan, Taif, Al-Khurmah, Al-Muwayh, Turbah, Ranyah, Al-Qunfudhah, Al-Muzaylif, and Al-Ardiyat.
- Medina region: The situation is concentrated in Al-Rais and Yanbu.
- Jazan region: includes Al-Harth, Al-Dayer, Al-Raith, Al-Ardah, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, Haroub, Al-Darb, Bish, Jazan, and Farasan.
- Asir region: includes Abha, Ahad Rafidah, Khamis Mushait, Al-Harjah, Al-Rabou’ah, Al-Farsha, Sarat Abidah, Dhahran Al-Janoub, Al-Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, Al-Amwah, Al-Arin, Bisha, Tathlith, Tarib, Al-Barak, Al-Qahmah, Al-Majardah, Bariq, Rijal Alma’, and Mahayil.
- Al-Baha region: includes Al-Aqiq, Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Al-Baha, Baljurashi, Bani Hassan, Al-Hajrah, Al-Makhwah, Far’ah Ghamid Al-Zanad, and Qalwah.
- Najran region: includes Badr Al Janoub, Thar, Habuna, Khubash, Najran, and Yadma.
Traffic safety and preventive guidelines
Under these weather conditions, relevant authorities, including the General Directorate of Traffic and the National Center of Meteorology, emphasize the importance of safe driving practices. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, use fog lights, and avoid sudden overtaking. It is also recommended to stay updated on weather conditions through official channels and approved weather applications to avoid any emergencies that may arise from reduced visibility.
