Saudi Arabia weather today: Fog in 3 regions and dust in the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued weather conditions for Monday, warning of weather fluctuations affecting several regions, ranging from the formation of dense fog on the western and southern coastal areas, to surface winds stirring up dust and sand on the eastern region, which calls for caution and vigilance on the part of drivers and highway users.
Details of the fog situation in coastal areas
The center explained in its report that parts of the Makkah, Asir, and Jazan will experience light fog, leading to a decrease in horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers. This weather phenomenon will begin at 1:00 AM and continue until 8:00 AM on Monday.
The areas affected by fog in Mecca include Al-Shuaiba, Al-Lith, and Al-Qunfudhah. In the Asir region, fog covers the coasts of Al-Barak and Al-Qahmah, while in the Jazan region, fog is affecting Ad-Darb, Baysh, Jazan city, and Farasan Island. The fog formation is a result of high surface humidity coming from the Red Sea, coinciding with lower temperatures in the early morning hours.
Dust storms and suspended particles in the eastern region
In contrast, the Eastern Province a completely different situation, with the center issuing warnings about surface wind activity causing dust storms. The warning covers the cities of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, and Abqaiq. This condition is causing near-zero horizontal visibility (1-3 kilometers) and will continue until 4:00 AM.
The weather forecast also warned of dust storms affecting Hafr Al-Batin, Al-Khafji, Al-Nairiyah, and Qaryat Al-Ulya, accompanied by reduced visibility.
Climate context and the importance of early warnings
These weather fluctuations are occurring during a transitional period in the Kingdom's weather, characterized by frequent atmospheric disturbances resulting from the interaction of different air masses. The Kingdom's geography plays a significant role in these weather variations; while high humidity from the Red Sea contributes to fog formation in the west, the open desert landscape of the eastern region makes it more susceptible to strong winds and dust storms.
Weather effects and safety guidelines
These weather phenomena have direct impacts on daily life, particularly regarding traffic and navigation. Relevant authorities, including Civil Defense and Traffic Police, urge citizens and residents to adhere to safety guidelines while driving in such conditions, such as maintaining a safe following distance, using fog lights, and avoiding speeding. Doctors also advise those with respiratory illnesses and asthma to avoid direct exposure to dust in areas experiencing blowing dust to protect their health.
