Meteorological authorities warn of dense fog and reduced visibility in 8 regions of Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology issued weather alert , indicating that large parts of Saudi Arabia will be affected by a wave of fog of varying intensity, urging drivers and highway users to exercise caution. The center explained in its report that this weather condition will begin at 1:00 AM and continue until 8:00 AM on Tuesday, and its effects will include a significant decrease in horizontal visibility ranging between 3 and 5 kilometers, potentially reaching near-zero visibility (1 to 3 kilometers) in some areas.
Areas and cities affected by the weather conditions
The report included a detailed breakdown of the cities and governorates that will experience this weather phenomenon in 8 main regions, which are as follows:
- The Eastern Province includes Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, Abqaiq, Khafji, Nairyah, and Qaryat Al-Ulya. The Eastern Province is one of the areas most prone to fog due to high humidity levels resulting from its proximity to the Arabian Gulf.
- Riyadh Region: Includes the capital Riyadh, Al-Muzahmiya, Rumah, Al-Hariq, Al-Kharj, Ad-Diriyah, Ad-Dilam, Hawtat Bani Tamim, and Dhurma.
- Makkah Region: The situation is concentrated in the coastal province of Al Qunfudhah.
- Medina: Includes the governorates of Al-Ula and Al-Ais.
- Asir region: It includes the highlands and major cities such as Abha, Ahad Rafidah, Khamis Mushait, Al Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, Al Birk, and Al Qahmah.
- Al-Jawf region: Al-Qurayyat.
- Northern borders: Tarif, Arar, Al-Uwaiqilah, and Rafha.
- Tabuk region: Tayma.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
This weather phenomenon occurs within the context of the usual climatic shifts the Kingdom experiences during the transition between seasons and into winter. The relative coolness of the earth's surface during the late night and early morning hours, coupled with high relative humidity and calm winds, contributes to the condensation of water vapor and the formation of fog. These warnings are of paramount importance due to their direct impact on land navigation and road safety, as fog is a major cause of traffic accidents during the early morning hours.
Traffic safety experts and relevant authorities consistently advise reducing speed in such weather conditions, using fog lights instead of high beams which can impair visibility, and maintaining a safe following distance to avoid collisions. The National Center of Meteorology affirms its commitment to accurately monitoring weather changes and issuing early warnings to ensure the safety of lives and property, urging everyone to follow official reports through its approved platforms.
