Saudi Arabia weather: Mecca hottest at 44 degrees Celsius; today's temperature forecast

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The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather report, revealing high temperatures across most of the Kingdom. Mecca recorded the highest temperature ever recorded among Saudi cities, reaching 44 degrees Celsius, underscoring the intensity of the heat wave affecting the region during the summer.

General context and desert climate of the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia is characterized by its harsh desert climate across most of the country, making high temperatures during the summer months, particularly between June and August, to be expected. Temperatures often exceed 40 degrees Celsius in both inland and coastal areas. This variation in temperature and humidity is due to the Kingdom's wide geographical diversity. While inland regions like Riyadh and Qassim experience hot and dry weather, coastal cities on the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea, such as Dammam and Jeddah, suffer from intense heat coupled with high humidity, exacerbating the feeling of heat exhaustion. In contrast, the southwestern highlands, including cities like Abha and Al-Baha, enjoy a more temperate climate thanks to their high altitude.

The importance and expected effects of heat waves

Extreme heat waves have widespread impacts at both the local and national levels. Health-wise, the Ministry of Health and other relevant authorities are increasingly urging caution and advising people to avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and heatstroke. These warnings are particularly important in Mecca and Medina, which receive millions of pilgrims and visitors. The Saudi government is working to provide all means of comfort and safety for pilgrims through shading projects and misting systems in the courtyards of the Two Holy Mosques. Economically, the significant rise in temperatures leads to a massive increase in electricity consumption to power air conditioners, placing considerable strain on the national power grid.

List of maximum temperatures in the cities of the Kingdom: