The Meteorology Department warns of dust and sandstorms in Al-Aqiq and Sharurah today
The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued important weather alerts on Thursday regarding the weather conditions in a number of the Kingdom’s governorates, indicating weather fluctuations that require caution and vigilance from citizens, residents, and drivers on highways.
Weather details in Al-Aqiq Governorate
In an official statement, the National Center for Meteorology warned of a dust storm affecting Al-Aqiq Governorate in the Al-Baha region. The center explained that this weather condition is accompanied by strong winds, leading to dust storms and a significant reduction in horizontal visibility to between 1 and 3 kilometers. The center specified the duration of this event, indicating that it will continue, God willing, until 8:00 PM this evening.
Dust particles affect Sharurah
In parallel, the center issued another alert concerning Sharurah Governorate, warning of the formation of dust particles that directly affect air quality and visibility. The effects of this condition include near-zero horizontal visibility, ranging from 1 to 3 kilometers. The center indicated that this condition in Sharurah would persist until 3:00 PM.
Geographical and climatic context
These warnings come amidst the usual weather fluctuations experienced across the Kingdom's various regions due to their diverse geography. Sharurah Governorate, located near the Empty Quarter desert, is naturally susceptible to such dust storms due to its sandy terrain and surface wind patterns. Meanwhile, the mountainous Al-Baha region is affected by active winds that can stir up dust in open areas and valleys, such as Al-Aqiq Governorate, which houses Al-Baha Regional Airport. This makes these warnings crucial for the safety of both air and land navigation.
The importance of warnings and safety procedures
These warnings are of paramount importance for maintaining public safety. The General Directorate of Civil Defense and health authorities typically urge caution in such weather conditions. Those with respiratory illnesses, asthma, and allergies are advised to avoid direct exposure to dust and remain indoors as much as possible. Traffic authorities also urge drivers on highways connecting these governorates to reduce their speed and use hazard lights due to reduced visibility, in order to prevent traffic accidents.
The National Center of Meteorology continues its vital role in monitoring and tracking weather changes around the clock, using the latest technologies and satellites to ensure that accurate information is delivered to the public and relevant authorities, thus enhancing the community’s readiness to deal with various climatic conditions.
