An overview of the weather in Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather report, revealing varying forecasts including a noticeable rise in temperatures in some areas, with a continued chance of thunderstorms in others. The holy sites of Arafat and Muzdalifah recorded the highest expected temperature at 41 degrees Celsius, necessitating caution and the taking of necessary precautions, especially given the coinciding weather conditions with the movement of pilgrims and visitors.
Details of temperatures and weather phenomena in major cities
According to the statement, major cities are experiencing significant variations in weather conditions. In Mecca and Medina, the maximum temperature is expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius, accompanied by forecasts of thunderstorms and strong winds. The capital, Riyadh, is experiencing relatively milder weather with a high of 36 degrees Celsius and a chance of light rain. In the Eastern Province, Dammam is expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius, while Jeddah, on the Red Sea coast, is also expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius with high humidity levels reaching 85%.
- Mecca, Arafat and Muzdalifah: Temperatures will reach 41 degrees with thunderstorms, rain and active winds.
- Medina: 40 degrees Celsius with similar forecasts of thunderstorms.
- Riyadh and Al-Kharj: More moderate weather with temperatures ranging between 36 and 37 degrees and light rain.
- Southern regions (Abha and Al-Baha): Relatively pleasant weather with temperatures not exceeding 27 degrees and thunderstorms.
- Northern regions (Tabuk and Arar): Temperatures in the mid-thirties with the possibility of dust storms.
Climate context and the importance of weather forecasts
These weather fluctuations are part of the Kingdom's climatic context, characterized by a hot desert climate in most of its regions, especially with the approach of summer. The current period is a transitional one, witnessing the activity of low-pressure systems that bring moisture from the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea. When this moisture meets drier air masses, it causes the formation of thunderstorms and rainfall. The mountainous terrain in the west and southwest of the Kingdom plays a vital role in enhancing these weather phenomena.
These forecasts are of paramount importance locally, as they contribute to raising awareness among citizens and residents. Relevant authorities, such as the Civil Defense, issue continuous warnings urging people to stay away from valleys and floodplains during rainfall and to exercise caution while driving due to strong winds that may stir up dust and reduce horizontal visibility. Monitoring weather conditions in the Holy Sites is also of international importance, given its direct impact on the safety and comfort of pilgrims from around the world.
