Saudi Arabia is bracing for a distinctly wintry weather system, characterized by sharp fluctuations and a dual impact. The National Center for Meteorology has warned of a cold polar wave coinciding with strong surface winds that will stir up dust and sand. This low-pressure system is expected to begin its direct effects tomorrow, Tuesday, January 20, and remain highly active until Thursday, January 22, prompting official calls for caution.
Details of the temperature drop and frost
According to weather reports, a cold wave will severely impact the northern regions of the Kingdom, including Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, and extending as far north as Medina. Forecasts indicate a dramatic drop in temperatures, with minimum temperatures plummeting to very low levels ranging from 2 degrees Celsius above zero to 2 degrees below zero (-2 degrees Celsius), creating conditions conducive to frost formation in the early morning hours. This necessitates special preparations by residents and farmers in these areas.
The cold wave will not stop at the north, but the area of influence of the cold air mass will gradually expand during Wednesday and Thursday to move towards the Qassim region, and cover the northern parts of the Eastern and Riyadh regions, where the minimum temperature in these areas is expected to range between 1 and 4 degrees Celsius.
Dusty winds and reduced visibility
In parallel with the temperature drop, weather maps have detected a significant increase in surface wind activity. This activity will begin on Tuesday, focusing on Al-Jawf and the northern borders, then the dust storms will expand and intensify from Tuesday evening through Wednesday, covering wide areas including Hail, Al-Qassim, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, reaching as far south as Najran. The winds will also affect the eastern parts of Asir and Al-Baha, and the Makkah and Madinah regions, including the coasts, potentially leading to near-zero visibility on highways.
Climate context and wave effects
This cold snap is part of the normal winter weather patterns in the Arabian Peninsula, where the Kingdom is typically affected at this time of year by the deepening of Siberian or eastern Mediterranean high-pressure systems, which bring with them dry and very cold air masses. These fluctuations are part of the usual climatic cycle that contributes to a noticeable drop in temperatures after periods of relative warmth.
Public health and safety recommendations
Given the nature of these weather conditions, adhering to public safety guidelines is crucial. From a health perspective, experts advise those with respiratory illnesses and asthma to avoid direct exposure to dust and to use face masks when necessary. Regarding road safety, reduced visibility due to dust and the potential for frost formation on northern roads necessitate that drivers reduce their speed, maintain a safe following distance, and stay updated on road and weather conditions from relevant authorities.
