Today's weather forecast: Thunderstorms and dust-raising winds in the Kingdom
The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily report on weather conditions across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, indicating continued variations in weather phenomena. While there is a chance of thunderstorms accompanied by active winds over the highlands of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah, the impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand will continue across large parts of the eastern, central, and northern regions of the Kingdom, necessitating caution.
Understanding the prevailing weather phenomena in the Kingdom
During the summer months, the Kingdom experiences distinct weather patterns, with northerly and northwesterly winds, known locally as "Al-Bawarih" winds, dominating the eastern and central regions. These dry and active winds are the primary cause of dust storms affecting areas such as the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Qassim, Hail, Al-Jawf, and the Northern Borders, as well as parts of the Tabuk and Madinah regions. This phenomenon significantly reduces horizontal visibility, posing a challenge to traffic and transportation, and negatively impacting those with respiratory illnesses and allergies, requiring them to remain indoors as much as possible.
Weather and rainfall forecast for the southern highlands
In contrast to the dry conditions prevailing in most other regions, the southwestern highlands of the Kingdom are experiencing atmospheric instability. This is due to the influence of humid monsoon winds originating from the Arabian Sea, which, upon encountering the mountains, lead to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and rainfall. While these rains are essential for replenishing water resources and moderating the climate, they can sometimes be heavy and cause flash floods in valleys and ravines, posing a danger to residents and visitors. The National Center of Meteorology emphasizes the importance of heeding issued warnings and staying away from floodplains during this period.
Navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, the report indicated that surface winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds ranging from 15 to 35 kilometers per hour in the northern and central parts, potentially reaching 45 kilometers per hour towards the Gulf of Aqaba. In the southern part, winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 12-28 km/h. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one and a half meters, potentially reaching two meters towards the Gulf of Aqaba. In the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds ranging from 18 to 45 kilometers per hour, with wave heights ranging from one to two meters, resulting in moderate sea conditions across most of the region.
