Saudi Arabia weather today: Fog in Asir and Jazan, and dust in the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather conditions for Thursday, indicating weather fluctuations affecting several regions, ranging from fog formation in the southern highlands to dust and sandstorms in the eastern region, which calls for caution and vigilance on the part of citizens, residents and highway users.
Details of the fog situation in the south
The center explained in its weather bulletin that light fog will form over large parts of the Asir and Jazan during the early morning hours. According to the report, this weather phenomenon will begin at 2:00 AM and continue until 8:00 AM on Thursday. The warning in the Asir region includes Abha, Khamis Mushait, Al-Namas, Balqarn, and Tanomah.
In the Jazan region, the center identified the affected areas as: Abu Arish, Ahad Al Masarihah, Al Tuwal, Al Fatihah, Samtah, Sabya, Damad, Al Harth, Al Dayer, Al Reeth, Al Aridhah, Al Aydabi, Fifa, and Haroub. This weather pattern is expected to reduce horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers, requiring extra caution while driving.
Winds and dust in the Eastern Province
In contrast, the Eastern Province is experiencing different weather conditions, with the National Center for Meteorology warning of active surface winds that will stir up dust and sand. This condition will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 3:00 PM in the governorates of Khafji, Nairyah, and Qaryat Al-Ulya, while the effects will extend to Hafr Al-Batin until 6:00 PM.
The effects associated with this situation include active winds and a decrease in horizontal visibility (3-5) kilometers, which may relatively affect traffic on the open and fast roads that connect those governorates.
Geographical and climatic context
These weather fluctuations are part of the Kingdom's natural climatic characteristics. The southwestern regions (Asir and Jazan) are distinguished by their high mountainous terrain, which contributes to cloud condensation and their contact with the ground, leading to fog formation, especially in the early morning and late evening. This phenomenon is common and sometimes a tourist attraction, but it also poses a traffic challenge.
On the other hand, the eastern region is characterized by its flat and desert nature, which makes it susceptible to active winds that stir up dust and sand, especially during transitional periods between seasons or when the region is affected by passing high or low pressure systems.
The importance of warnings and safety guidelines
This type of report is of paramount importance for maintaining public safety. Relevant authorities, including Civil Defense and Traffic Police, urge drivers to adhere to speed limits, maintain a safe following distance, use appropriate lighting in foggy conditions, and avoid speeding in areas with heavy dust to ensure everyone's safety.
