The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather forecast for various regions of Saudi Arabia, indicating that the chance of thunderstorms accompanied by active winds remains high in parts of the highlands of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah. The report explained that these weather phenomena are part of the seasonal climate fluctuations experienced in the southwestern highlands of the Kingdom during the summer, which contribute to cooler temperatures and attract domestic tourism.
Meanwhile, the impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand, which reduces horizontal visibility, continues in parts of Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, and Riyadh regions. This impact also extends to the northern parts of the Eastern Province, necessitating caution from drivers on highways and those with respiratory conditions.
The nature of the highland climate and the impact of monsoon rains
The southwestern highlands of the Kingdom are characterized by a unique climate, distinct from the desert landscape prevalent in most of the country. This is due to their high altitude and the influence of humid monsoon winds originating from the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea during the summer months. These factors combine to create ideal conditions for the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and rainfall, known locally as "summer rains." These rains play a vital role in supporting the agricultural sector in these regions, which are renowned for their fruit and coffee cultivation. They also replenish dams and wells and contribute to the greening of the mountain terraces, making them a major tourist destination for residents seeking a temperate climate and stunning natural beauty to escape the summer heat of the rest of the country.
Warnings regarding weather conditions and their impact on public safety
While these rains are a blessing, they can sometimes pose a danger. Thunderstorms are often heavy and short-lived, leading to flash floods in valleys and ravines. Therefore, the Civil Defense Directorate and the National Center of Meteorology continuously reiterate their warnings to citizens and residents to stay away from flood channels and wadi beds during rainfall and to avoid attempting to cross them. Furthermore, the strong winds accompanying thunderstorms can affect vehicle stability on mountain roads and increase the risk of rockfalls, requiring careful driving and heightened vigilance.
Navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, the meteorological report indicated that surface winds on the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds ranging from 25-45 km/h in the northern and central parts, and northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 10-30 km/h in the southern part. Wave heights will range from one to two meters in the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to one meter in the southern part, with sea conditions ranging from moderate to slight. In the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 18-38 km/h in the northern and central parts, and northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 25-45 km/h in the southern part. Wave heights will range from one to two meters, resulting in sea conditions ranging from slight to moderate.
Heat wave in the Eastern Province
Meanwhile, the center warned of a continuing heat wave in the Eastern Province, with temperatures expected to reach between 47 and 48 degrees Celsius. This phenomenon will begin at 11:00 AM and continue until 5:00 PM. Health authorities urged residents to take necessary precautions, such as drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours to prevent heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
