The National Center for Meteorology issued a recent weather report for today, warning of weather fluctuations affecting several regions, most notably Riyadh and Mecca. The report included warnings about strong surface winds and dust storms, urging citizens, residents, and highway users to exercise caution.
Weather details for the Riyadh region
The center explained in its statement that large parts of the Riyadh region will experience significant wind activity, particularly in Wadi Al-Dawasir . According to the report, the weather conditions will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 6:00 PM. Wind speeds are expected to reach between 40 and 49 kilometers per hour, leading to dust storms and a noticeable decrease in horizontal visibility.
The alert also included other governorates in the Riyadh region, namely: Dawadmi, Al-Rayn, Al-Quway'iyah, and Afif . These areas are affected by active winds and blowing dust, leading to a decrease in horizontal visibility to levels ranging between (3-5) kilometers, which requires extra caution while driving.
Weather effects on Mecca
The warnings were not limited to the central region but extended to parts of the Makkah region. The National Center for Meteorology indicated the presence of blowing dust, the effects of which would begin at 9:00 AM and continue until the evening. This coincides with active surface winds that contribute to carrying dust and reducing visibility in open areas and on highways.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These weather fluctuations are part of the typical climate patterns in Saudi Arabia, where desert and open areas are highly susceptible to surface winds that stir up dust and suspended particles. These phenomena significantly impact daily life, particularly land transportation.
The National Center of Meteorology plays a pivotal role in such conditions, as its early warning systems help mitigate potential risks by providing relevant authorities and the public with accurate and up-to-date information. These reports assist drivers in planning their journeys and avoiding roads with high dust density, thus enhancing road safety and reducing accidents caused by poor visibility.
Public safety recommendations
In these dusty conditions, experts and relevant authorities advise following safety guidelines, which include:
- Reduce speed when driving on highways and leave a sufficient safety distance between vehicles.
- Use the vehicle's front and side lights to increase visibility to others.
- Close the windows of homes and cars tightly to prevent dust from entering.
- Patients with respiratory conditions and asthma are advised to avoid going out in such weather except when absolutely necessary, while being careful to wear medical masks to avoid health complications.
