The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia revealed weather that the weather fluctuations witnessed in most regions of the Kingdom continue, as weather factors combine to create a state of instability that includes thunderstorms and surface wind activity.
Weather details and affected areas
The report indicated that there remains a chance of light thunderstorms , accompanied by hail and strong, dust-raising winds. This weather pattern will affect large parts of the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Najran, Jazan, and Asir . The center also noted the possibility of fog forming over the highlands and parts of these regions, which could reduce horizontal visibility during the early morning hours.
In contrast, other areas are experiencing surface wind activity that stirs up dust and sand, limiting horizontal visibility, specifically in parts of the Makkah, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders , which calls for caution and vigilance for highway users in those areas.
The state of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, the Red Sea northeasterly to northwesterly surface winds, gradually shifting to northerly, with speeds ranging from 20 to 45 km/h, potentially reaching 50 km/h in the central region. Wave heights range from one to two and a half meters, resulting in moderate to rough sea conditions, particularly in the central sector.
In the Arabian Gulf , the winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of up to 50 km/h, with the formation of rain-bearing thunderclouds over the central and southern parts, leading to waves reaching up to two and a half meters high. Fishermen and seafarers are advised to take precautions.
Special alerts for the Eastern Province
The automated early warning system issued advanced alerts for the Eastern Province, where the governorates of Jubail, Khobar, Khafji, Dammam, Qatif, and Ras Tanura active winds leading to reduced visibility and high waves. This condition is expected to persist from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Meanwhile Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, and Abqaiq dust-laden winds that are reducing visibility to less than 5 kilometers.
General context and the importance of monitoring weather forecasts
These weather fluctuations occur during transitional periods in the Arabian Peninsula's climate, times typically characterized by rapid changes in pressure systems, leading to atmospheric instability. Reports from the National Center of Meteorology play a vital role in maintaining public safety, as these phenomena directly impact air and sea navigation, as well as the safety of roads connecting the Kingdom's vast regions.
Citizens and residents are advised to follow continuous updates and avoid low-lying areas and flood channels in rainy areas, and to drive cautiously in areas experiencing heavy dust in order to protect lives and property.
