Weather in Saudi Arabia: Thunderstorms and rain continue, accompanied by active winds causing dust storms
The National Center for Meteorology issued its detailed daily weather report for Saudi Arabia, forecasting continued weather fluctuations across several regions of the Kingdom. These forecasts come amidst seasonal climate changes affecting the Arabian Peninsula, with the country experiencing atmospheric instability characterized by thunderstorms and significant surface wind activity.
Rain and wind forecasts for regions of the Kingdom
The report issued by the National Center for Meteorology indicated that the chance of thunderstorms, possibly accompanied by hail, remains high over parts of the highlands of the Jazan and Asir regions. These southwestern areas of the Kingdom have a unique geographical and climatic character, historically receiving the highest rainfall rates compared to other regions, thanks to their mountainous terrain and the influence of monsoon winds, which contribute to enhanced vegetation cover and support the local agricultural sector.
In contrast, parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, Hail, and Madinah regions are experiencing active surface winds that are stirring up dust and sand. These winds are reducing horizontal visibility, with a chance of scattered light rain. Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution while driving on highways in these weather conditions to ensure road safety and avoid accidents.
Maritime navigation situation: Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
Given the strategic and economic importance of the water bodies surrounding the Kingdom, the report detailed the situation of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, where weather conditions directly affect regional and international shipping.
Red Sea
Forecasts indicate that surface winds over the Red Sea will be southerly to southeasterly at speeds ranging from 10 to 30 kilometers per hour, potentially reaching 45 kilometers per hour towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Wave heights are expected to range from half a meter to one and a half meters, resulting in calm to moderate sea conditions, which are considered relatively stable for the movement of commercial vessels and fishing boats.
Arabian Gulf
Over the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northerly to northwesterly at 15-30 km/h in the northern part, and northwesterly to westerly at 20-45 km/h in the central and southern parts. Wave height will range from half a meter to one and a half meters in the north, and from one to two meters in the central and southern parts, resulting in calm sea conditions in the north and moderate conditions in the central and southern parts.
Important alerts for the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology issued a special alert for the Eastern Province, warning of strong winds affecting the cities of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, and Ras Tanura. This weather phenomenon will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 5:00 PM. The accompanying effects include reduced horizontal visibility, high waves along the coast, and wind speeds reaching between 40 and 49 kilometers per hour. These early warnings play a vital role in protecting lives and property and ensuring the continuity of business in this region, which is the industrial and economic heart of the Kingdom.
The climate context and the importance of continuous monitoring
Saudi Arabia is characterized by a predominantly arid desert climate, but its vast geographical diversity creates multiple sub-climatic zones. The transitional periods between seasons are among the most volatile times, marked by extreme weather fluctuations such as sandstorms and flash floods. Monitoring weather conditions through official channels of the National Center of Meteorology is crucial, not only for mitigating everyday risks but also for supporting vital sectors like agriculture, aviation, and maritime navigation. Accurate weather forecasts and early warning systems contribute significantly to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 related to quality of life and environmental protection by enabling early preparedness for extreme weather events.
