Saudi Arabia weather: Frost in the northern border region and winds in the eastern region
The National Center for Meteorology issued an important alert regarding the expected weather conditions in the Kingdom, warning of severe weather fluctuations affecting several regions, most notably a harsh cold wave that is affecting parts of the Northern Borders region, coinciding with surface wind activity that stirs up dust and sand in the Eastern region.
Details of the cold wave and frost in the north
The center explained in its report that the Northern Borders region will experience a noticeable drop in temperatures, with the weather conditions beginning at 2:00 AM and continuing until 8:00 AM on Monday. This includes the cities and governorates of Al-Uwaiqilah, Rafha, Tarif, and Arar .
Forecasts indicate that minimum temperatures will range between zero and 3 degrees Celsius below zero , creating an opportunity for frost formation, a phenomenon that requires extreme caution, especially for highway users and farmers in those areas.
Climate context: Why are the northern borders affected?
The Northern Borders region is among the areas of the Kingdom most vulnerable to cold waves originating from higher latitudes and polar regions, due to its open geographical location and topographical features. Historically, these areas experience sharp drops in temperature during winter, sometimes reaching record lows, making frost and freezing a common occurrence that requires special preparations from relevant authorities and citizens to ensure public safety and protect crops and livestock from the effects of the severe cold.
Active winds and dust in the eastern region
In a related development, the National Center for Meteorology warned of different weather conditions affecting the Eastern Province, including active winds and dust storms starting at 9:00 AM and continuing until 6:00 PM. The warning covers the governorates of Jubail, Dammam, Khobar, Qatif, and Ras Tanura .
Wind speeds are expected to reach between 40 and 49 kilometers per hour, leading to reduced horizontal visibility. Dust storms are also affecting the Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, and Buqayq , reducing visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers. Drivers are advised to exercise caution on highways.
Public safety recommendations
Due to these weather fluctuations, experts advise residents of northern regions to wear heavy winter clothing and ensure they have adequate heating. As for residents of the eastern region, they are advised to avoid direct exposure to dust, especially those with respiratory conditions, and to drive with extreme caution, maintaining a safe distance between vehicles due to reduced visibility.
