Saudi Arabia weather forecast for Saturday: Thunderstorms and dust-raising winds

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its detailed weather forecast for Saturday, warning of continued unstable weather conditions across the country. The forecast indicates thunderstorms, potentially ranging from moderate to heavy, accompanied by hail and strong surface winds that will stir up dust and reduce horizontal visibility in large parts of the Kingdom.

According to the center's statement, the areas affected by this weather condition include Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah, in addition to Hail, Qassim, and Riyadh. These effects are expected to extend to parts of Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, the Eastern Province, and Najran, where strong winds will be the most prominent feature, increasing dust density and affecting those with respiratory illnesses and drivers on highways.

The climatic context of weather fluctuations

These weather conditions fall within the climatic context of spring in the Kingdom, known locally as the "Sarayat" or "Summer Winds" period. This transitional period between winter and summer is characterized by high levels of instability in the upper atmosphere, resulting from the convergence of cold air masses from the north with warm, humid air masses from the south. This convergence creates ideal conditions for the formation of cumulonimbus clouds, which cause sudden and heavy rainfall, often accompanied by hail and strong downdrafts.

Importance and expected effects

Locally, these rains are crucial for replenishing groundwater reservoirs and dams, and for supporting the Kingdom's agricultural sector, which relies heavily on limited water resources. However, they also pose a significant challenge to public safety. The General Directorate of Civil Defense has issued repeated warnings to citizens and residents, urging them to exercise caution, stay away from valleys and floodplains, and avoid low-lying areas. Drivers are also advised to be extremely careful due to reduced visibility and the potential for slippery roads. These weather conditions are expected to affect air traffic at some regional airports, as well as impact outdoor activities and public events.

Red Sea situation

• Surface winds: Northwesterly to northerly at 20-40 km/h in the northern and central parts, possibly reaching 48 km/h towards the Gulf of Aqaba. Northwesterly to westerly at 10-30 km/h in the southern part.
• Wave height: 1 to 2 meters in the northern and central parts, reaching more than 2 meters towards the Gulf of Aqaba. 0.5 to 1.5 meters in the southern part.
• Sea state: Moderate waves in the northern and central parts, becoming rough towards the Gulf of Aqaba. Light to moderate waves in the southern part.

Arabian Gulf situation

• Surface winds: Northwesterly to northerly in the northern and central parts, and northwesterly to westerly in the southern part, with speeds ranging between 20-40 km/h.
• Wave height: from one meter to two meters.
• Sea state: Moderate waves.