Saudi Arabia weather: Dust in Al-Jawf, fog in the Eastern Province, and reduced visibility
The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued important weather alerts regarding the expected weather conditions, as the center warned of weather fluctuations that directly affect horizontal visibility in several regions, most notably the Al-Jawf region and the Eastern Province, as part of its continuous monitoring of the climatic changes that the Kingdom is witnessing during this period.
Weather details in Al-Jawf region
The center explained in its report that the Al-Jawf region will experience active surface winds stirring up dust and sand, leading to near-zero horizontal visibility, with the expected range between 1 and 3 kilometers. This includes the city of Sakaka and the governorates of Dumat Al-Jandal, Al-Qurayyat, and Tabuk. According to the report, this weather condition will begin at 3:00 AM and continue until 7:00 PM on Tuesday.
Geographical and climatic context
These warnings are issued in light of the Kingdom's geographical and climatic characteristics. Northern regions, such as Al-Jawf, are prone to low-pressure systems and active winds that stir up dust, particularly during seasonal transitions. Dust storms are a recurring natural phenomenon in the Arabian Peninsula, playing a role in shaping the desert landscape, but they also pose a significant challenge to transportation and daily life.
Expected effects and safety measures
This weather condition is expected to affect traffic on the highways connecting the governorates of the Al-Jawf region, necessitating caution from drivers. Health experts also advise those with respiratory illnesses and asthma to avoid direct exposure to dust and to use medical masks when necessary, given the irritants carried by the dust storm, which can negatively impact public health.
Dense fog in the eastern region
In a related development, the National Center for Meteorology warned of fog formation across large parts of the Eastern Province, leading to reduced horizontal visibility during the early morning hours. This included the cities of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, Ras Tanura, and several others. The fog began at 11:00 PM on Monday and continued until 7:00 AM on Tuesday.
The relevant authorities, including the Civil Defense and Road Security, are calling on citizens and residents to follow official weather reports and adhere to the instructions issued to ensure their safety during these weather fluctuations.
