Friday's weather forecast in Saudi Arabia: Winds and dust
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia announced details of the expected weather conditions for Friday, warning of significant weather fluctuations including increased surface wind activity and dust storms across large parts of the country. These warnings are part of the center's commitment to the safety of citizens and residents, and to providing accurate information to avoid any potential risks resulting from sudden weather changes that could disrupt daily life.
Climatic background and the impact of weather factors
Historically, the Arabian Peninsula, and Saudi Arabia in particular, is known for its desert and semi-desert geography, which makes it susceptible to dust storms and strong winds, especially during seasonal transitions. These weather phenomena are not new; rather, they are part of the regional climate system that directly impacts land and air transport, requiring special preparations and preventative measures by relevant health and traffic authorities to ensure public safety.
The five areas affected by dust
According to the official statement issued by the Meteorology Department, the impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand continues, leading to a significant decrease in horizontal visibility. This impact includes five main areas: parts of the Riyadh and Eastern regions, extending south and west to the Najran region, as well as parts of the Makkah and Madinah regions. This reduced visibility requires extreme caution from drivers on open highways to avoid traffic accidents.
Chance of rainfall in the highlands
In contrast to the dusty conditions prevailing in the central, eastern, and western regions, the southwestern highlands experience a completely different weather pattern. The report indicated that thunderstorms with rain are possible over parts of the Asir region's highlands, reflecting the Kingdom's significant climatic diversity, which contributes to moderating the weather in these mountainous areas.
Local and regional influences
These weather changes have direct impacts on public health and the economy. Locally, the Ministry of Health and medical authorities consistently advise respiratory and asthma patients to take necessary precautions, such as wearing masks and avoiding direct exposure to dust. Economically and regionally, sea conditions and wind patterns affect maritime navigation and fishing in the two most important waterways surrounding the Kingdom: the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.
Navigation conditions in the Red Sea
- Surface winds: Northwesterly to northerly winds will blow at a speed of 25 to 45 km/h over the northern and central parts, while southwesterly to northwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 10-30 km/h over the southern part.
- Wave height: ranging from one to two meters on the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to one and a half meters on the southern part.
- Sea conditions: Moderate waves in the northern and central parts, and light to moderate waves in the southern part, requiring caution from fishermen and sea-goers.
Navigation conditions in the Arabian Gulf
- Surface winds: Northwesterly to westerly at a speed of 12-38 km/h, and may reach 45 km/h in the northern and central parts.
- Wave height: from half a meter to one and a half meters, and may reach two meters in the northern and central parts.
- Sea conditions: Light to moderate waves, allowing for commercial navigation with caution in open areas.
