The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia revealed details of the minimum temperatures recorded Thursday night/Friday morning across various regions and cities of the Kingdom. Many areas experienced a noticeable drop in temperatures, reflecting the current winter weather conditions. Dammam and the capital, Riyadh, recorded temperatures as low as 9 degrees Celsius, necessitating the taking of necessary precautions to cope with the cold weather.
Climate variation and the nature of winter in the Kingdom
Saudi Arabia is characterized by its vast geographical diversity, resulting in significant temperature variations across its different regions. While the northern and central regions experience a sharp drop in temperatures during winter due to the influence of cold air masses from the north, the western and southwestern coastal areas maintain more moderate and warmer temperatures. This variation was clearly evident in the latest report, highlighting the significant difference between the temperature in Tabuk (4°C) and Jazan (22°C).
List of minimum temperatures recorded
According to a statement from the National Center for Meteorology, the minimum temperatures in Saudi cities were as follows:
- The coldest areas: Tabuk and Al-Soudah recorded 4 degrees Celsius, followed by Tarif at 5 degrees, and Hail at 6 degrees Celsius.
- Central and Eastern Region: Dammam, Riyadh, Buraidah, Al Majmaah, Rawdat Al Tanhat and Al Dahna Desert recorded 9 degrees Celsius, while Hafr Al Batin recorded 8 degrees.
- Coastal and western cities: Jeddah and Mecca recorded 18 degrees Celsius, while Medina recorded 11 degrees.
- Warm regions: Jazan and Al Qunfudhah topped the list with 22 degrees Celsius.
The list also included other cities such as Abha and Al-Ula (8 degrees), Taif, Dawadmi and Rafha (9 degrees), Al-Kharj (10 degrees), Najran (11 degrees), Al-Ahsa and Bisha (12 degrees), Yanbu, Wadi Al-Dawasir and Sharurah (13 degrees), and Al-Wajh (15 degrees).
The importance of following weather forecasts and their impact
Following daily weather forecasts is of paramount importance to citizens and residents, as these low temperatures impact daily life. Experts always advise wearing heavy winter clothing in areas where temperatures drop below 10 degrees Celsius, especially for children and the elderly, to avoid winter illnesses and colds. Knowing the temperature is also essential for road travelers and for farmers in northern regions to protect their crops from potential frost.
The National Center of Meteorology continuously emphasizes the need to follow its official reports to identify weather fluctuations, especially with the possibility of active winds that may increase the feeling of cold in open and desert areas.
