The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather for Monday, indicating continued weather fluctuations affecting several regions of the Kingdom. This report is part of the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions to ensure the safety of citizens and residents, particularly given the surface wind activity that could directly impact horizontal visibility and road safety on highways.
Weather details and affected areas
According to the weather report, the Kingdom is experiencing continued dust-laden winds , a common weather phenomenon at this time of year due to atmospheric pressure differences. This activity will lead to reduced horizontal visibility, potentially reaching near-zero visibility at times, requiring extreme caution.
The areas affected by this dust storm include large parts of Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and Najran , with its effects extending to the eastern parts of the southwestern highlands. Makkah, Madinah, and Tabuk are also not immune, as they are expected to experience the effects of strong winds and blowing dust.
Chance of rain and fog
On the other hand, and in light of the diverse climate across the Kingdom's terrain, the report indicated the possibility of light rain, potentially accompanied by dense fog during the early morning and late night hours, particularly in parts of the Jazan and Asir . This situation warrants special attention from those traveling on mountain roads and slopes in those areas.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, the center provided details on wave and wind movement in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf:
- Red Sea: Surface winds are shifting from northwesterly to northeasterly in the northern and central parts, with speeds ranging from 10 to 38 km/h. In the southern part, winds are southeasterly to southwesterly, reaching speeds of up to 35 km/h, and may intensify to 45 km/h towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Wave heights range from half a meter to one and a half meters, and may reach two meters in the south, resulting in a slight to moderate sea state.
- Arabian Gulf: Surface winds will be northwesterly to westerly, with speeds ranging from 20 to 45 km/h, leading to waves of one to two meters high, and the sea state will be described as moderately rough.
The importance of caution and public safety
These reports are of paramount importance given the impact of weather conditions on daily life and the economy. Dust-laden winds not only affect traffic and intercity transportation, but can also have health consequences for those with respiratory illnesses and asthma. Therefore, it is always advisable to follow official weather forecasts, avoid high speeds on open roads when visibility is low, and adhere to the instructions of the relevant authorities to ensure everyone's safety.
