The National Center for Meteorology revealed in its daily report details of weather conditions on Wednesday across various regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, indicating weather fluctuations including a decrease in temperatures and surface wind activity, which necessitates taking precautions, especially for highway users and respiratory patients.
Weather details and affected areas
The report indicated that the Kingdom is experiencing a drop in temperatures today, accompanied by active surface winds that are stirring up dust and sand. This weather pattern will significantly reduce horizontal visibility across large parts of the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, Northern Borders, Hail, and Madinah regions. These fluctuations are part of the transitional period the Kingdom is currently experiencing, characterized by the influx of cold air currents from the north, which stir up dust in open and desert areas.
Chance of rain and fog
Regarding rainfall, the center predicted partly cloudy to cloudy skies, with a chance of light rain that could refresh the atmosphere in parts of Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan regions. This chance extends to parts of the northern and eastern regions of the Kingdom. The center also warned of the possibility of dense fog forming during the night and early morning hours, which could reduce visibility in the highlands and parts of the western and southwestern regions of the Kingdom.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding sea conditions, the report indicated that surface winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly in the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southerly in the southern part, with speeds ranging from 25 to 45 km/h, and wave heights reaching up to 2.5 meters, resulting in moderate to rough sea conditions. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will shift to northwesterly in the evening, potentially reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h with the formation of thunderstorms, raising wave heights to 2.5 meters.
Special alerts for the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology issued advanced warnings for the Eastern Province, anticipating continued dust storms and blowing sand. This includes the cities of Khafji, Nairyah, and Qaryat Al-Ulya, where the dust storms are expected to begin at 11:00 AM and continue until the evening, accompanied by reduced visibility (3-5 km). Meanwhile, Hafr Al-Batin is experiencing strong winds and blowing sand, leading to near-zero horizontal visibility (1-3 km), requiring extreme caution while driving.
The importance of following weather forecasts
These reports are of paramount importance given the Kingdom's geographical and climatic characteristics, as dust storms directly impact public health and land and sea navigation. Experts consistently advise following continuous updates from official sources to avoid potential risks resulting from poor visibility or sudden temperature fluctuations.
