Weather in Saudi Arabia: Extreme heat in the Eastern Province and dust in 9 regions
Hot weather and active winds in most regions of the Kingdom
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather report, forecasting the continuation of the heatwave in parts of the Eastern Province. The report also warned of the continued impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility across large parts of the Kingdom, including nine major regions, while the possibility of thunderstorms exists in some southwestern highlands.
According to the report, hot to very hot weather is expected to persist in parts of the Eastern Province, with temperatures potentially exceeding 49 degrees Celsius in cities such as Hafr al-Batin, Khafji, Nairyah, and Qaryat al-Ulya. This heat wave will be accompanied by strong winds that will exacerbate the feeling of heat and stir up dust, leading to near-zero visibility on some roads.
Climatic context: The Kingdom's summer and the Al-Bawarih winds
These weather conditions are typical of the Arabian Peninsula's summer season, characterized by significantly high temperatures, especially in the interior and desert regions. This period is known for the activity of the "Bawarih" winds, hot and dry northwesterly winds that are active during June and July. These winds are responsible for stirring up dust and sandstorms that affect vast areas of Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf countries. The Kingdom's predominantly desert geography exacerbates the impact of these winds.
Expected impacts on public health and safety
These weather conditions have direct impacts on various aspects of life. On the health front, health authorities consistently warn of the dangers of direct sun exposure during peak hours to avoid heatstroke and heat exhaustion, emphasizing the importance of drinking plenty of fluids. Dust and sand also pose a risk to those with respiratory conditions, asthma, and allergies. Regarding public safety, the General Directorate of Traffic and Civil Defense urge drivers to exercise caution on highways due to reduced visibility, especially in areas affected by strong winds such as Riyadh, Qassim, Hail, and Mecca.
Forecast details for different regions
The center explained that the impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand will affect parts of the Makkah, Madinah, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, Eastern Province, Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, and Tabuk regions. Meanwhile, the chance of thunderstorms accompanied by active winds remains high over parts of the Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha highlands, and may extend to include the Makkah highlands.
The situation in the Red and Arabian Seas
Red Sea: Surface winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 22-42 km/h in the northern and central parts, and 15-32 km/h in the southern part. Wave heights will range from 1 to 2 meters in the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to 1.5 meters in the southern part. Sea conditions will be slight to moderate.
Arabian Gulf: Surface winds will be southwesterly to southeasterly at a speed of 16-33 km/h. Wave height will range from half a meter to one and a half meters, and sea conditions will be slight to moderate.
