The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather report for Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, warning of severe weather fluctuations affecting several regions of the Kingdom. The forecast indicates strong surface winds that will stir up dust and sand, urging citizens and residents, especially drivers on highways, to exercise caution.
Weather details and affected areas
According to the weather report, the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders regions are experiencing strong winds that may develop into dust storms, leading to near-zero horizontal visibility. This weather pattern is accompanied by a chance of light rain in parts of these areas. The impact of these active, dust-laden winds also extends to large parts of the Makkah, Madinah, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, and Eastern Province regions, potentially reducing horizontal visibility in open areas.
Climate context and its effects
These weather fluctuations are part of the transitional periods the Kingdom experiences, characterized by the activity of low-pressure systems that contribute to dust and sandstorms due to the region's desert geography. While such phenomena are common at this time of year, their intensity necessitates continuous monitoring of weather forecasts. These dust storms directly impact land navigation and can also affect those with respiratory conditions and asthma, making it essential to follow health and safety guidelines.
Chance of rain and thunderstorms
Meanwhile, the chance of thunderstorms with rain and active surface winds remains high over the northern parts of the Eastern Province. Thunderstorms are also expected over the western and southwestern highlands of the Kingdom, with the possibility of fog during the night and early morning hours, which will reduce visibility.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the maritime conditions, the report indicated that the Red Sea is experiencing northwesterly to northerly winds reaching speeds of over 45 km/h towards the Gulf of Aqaba, with wave heights exceeding 2.5 meters, making the sea rough in that area. As for the Arabian Gulf, it is experiencing southwesterly winds reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h, accompanied by thunderstorms and rain, with wave heights reaching 2.5 meters.
Special alerts for the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology issued a warning for the Eastern Province about dust storms and reduced visibility (3-5) kilometers, starting at 4 am in Hafr Al-Batin, and extending to include Al-Khafji, Al-Nairiyah and Qaryat Al-Ulya starting at 9 am, with effects continuing until 5 pm, accompanied by active winds.
