Weather details for Mecca and Medina: Yellow and orange alerts issued by the Meteorology Department
Urgent updates from the National Center for Meteorology
As part of its ongoing monitoring of the weather fluctuations affecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the National Center for Meteorology issued important warning reports, including yellow and orange alerts, regarding weather conditions in the Makkah and Madinah regions. These alerts come at a time when large parts of the Arabian Peninsula are experiencing significant surface wind activity, leading to dust storms and a direct impact on horizontal visibility on highways and in open areas.
Details of the yellow alert in Mecca
The National Center for Meteorology announced that the Makkah region is under a yellow alert, specifically affecting the governorates of Khulais and Al-Muwayh, as well as other adjacent areas. This alert indicates expected strong winds accompanied by blowing dust, which will reduce horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers. The center specified that the alert will be in effect from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Friday. These areas are of vital importance due to their geographical location and their connection to a major road network serving travelers and pilgrims.
Weather conditions in Medina: Gradual warnings
As for the Madinah region, the alerts varied, encompassing two levels of early warning. The first level, a yellow alert, covered the governorates of Al-Ula, Khaybar, Al-Ais, and Madinah, the region's administrative capital. The weather conditions here are similar to those in Makkah, including strong winds, blowing dust, and reduced visibility (3-5 km). This alert is in effect from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Friday.
In a more serious development, the center issued an orange alert for the governorates of Al-Hanakiya and Al-Mahd. An orange alert is an advanced level requiring extreme caution, as the center warned of strong winds and blowing dust that could reduce horizontal visibility to only 1-3 kilometers. This advanced alert is in effect from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The implications and importance of the early warning system
The Saudi National Center for Meteorology uses a global color-coded early warning system to protect lives and property. Yellow indicates a "warning" of a potential weather phenomenon affecting the area, requiring vigilance. Orange signifies an "advanced warning," indicating an expected weather phenomenon with a significant impact, urging citizens and residents to take precautions and adhere to instructions issued by relevant authorities such as the General Directorate of Civil Defense.
Expected effects and safety guidelines
Historically, dust storms and strong winds have been common weather patterns in the Kingdom, especially during seasonal transitions. These weather conditions directly impact traffic on highways connecting major cities, such as the Haramain Expressway and the Hijrah Road. Therefore, traffic and security authorities emphasize the need to reduce speed, maintain a safe distance between vehicles, and use headlights and taillights while driving in dusty areas.
On the health front, those with respiratory conditions and asthma are advised to avoid leaving their homes during periods of high winds and dust storms unless absolutely necessary. Wearing medical masks is also crucial to protect against fine dust particles that can cause health complications. Adhering to these guidelines and following official updates through the National Center of Meteorology's channels will ensure everyone's safety and help them navigate these weather fluctuations safely.
