The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather for Sunday, indicating significant weather fluctuations affecting large areas of the Kingdom. The report included important warnings for citizens and residents regarding a drop in temperatures, increased surface wind activity, and the formation of dense fog that may reduce horizontal visibility in 12 different regions.
Weather details and affected areas
According to the official statement issued by the Meteorology Department, the impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand is expected to continue, reducing horizontal visibility in parts of the Eastern Province, Riyadh, and Qassim. This impact is not limited to the central and eastern regions but extends to parts of the Madinah and Makkah regions, necessitating caution while driving on highways and open roads.
In contrast, the northern regions of the Kingdom are experiencing a noticeable temperature change, with a significant drop in temperatures in Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, and Hail, extending to parts of the Tabuk region. This cold wave coincides with favorable conditions for fog formation during the night and early morning hours in the southwestern highlands, specifically in parts of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, which may cause a significant decrease in visibility.
Climate context and seasonal shifts
These weather fluctuations are occurring during a transitional period in Saudi Arabia, as cold air masses gradually deepen from the north, leading to a noticeable temperature difference between the north and south of the Kingdom. Such phenomena are normal at this time of year, as the effects of passing low-pressure systems interact with the Kingdom's diverse geography, ranging from humid coastlines to arid deserts and mountainous highlands.
The Kingdom’s topographical diversity plays a pivotal role in shaping these climatic patterns. While the northern regions receive cold waves directly, the highlands in Asir and Al-Baha act as barriers to humid winds, enhancing the chances of dense fog formation, a phenomenon that recurs annually and always calls for the activation of traffic safety plans.
Expected effects and safety recommendations
Given these circumstances, it is crucial to adhere to the instructions of the relevant authorities, as dust-laden winds directly affect those with respiratory conditions and asthma, necessitating avoidance of direct exposure to dust. Furthermore, the drop in temperatures in the north requires preparing appropriate winter clothing, especially for children and the elderly, to prevent seasonal colds.
Regarding road safety, fog in mountainous areas and dust in open areas pose a challenge to drivers. In such conditions, security and traffic authorities typically advise reducing speeds, using fog lights, and avoiding areas prone to flash floods or valleys in case of rainfall associated with these weather fluctuations.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the maritime situation, the report provided the following details:
Red Sea
- Surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 16-36 km/h in the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southerly at speeds of 14-32 km/h in the southern part, potentially reaching speeds of up to 45 km/h towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
- Wave height: ranging from half a meter to one and a half meters, and may reach two meters towards the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
- Sea state: Light to moderate waves.
Arabian Gulf
- Surface winds: Initially southeasterly to northeasterly, then shifting to northwesterly during the afternoon at speeds of 15-45 km/h in the northern and central parts. In the southern part, they will be southeasterly to southerly, shifting to southwesterly to westerly in the evening at speeds of 10-40 km/h.
- Wave height: 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 north and center, and light to moderate in the south.
