The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather conditions during the early morning hours of Tuesday, as large parts of five major regions are experiencing a wave of fog of varying intensity, which calls for caution and vigilance on the part of drivers and highway users.
Weather details and affected areas
The weather report indicated that the phenomenon would begin at 2:00 AM and continue until 8:00 AM, with effects including a decrease in horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers in some areas, while other areas might experience near-zero visibility ranging from 1 to 3 kilometers. The center identified the affected areas and cities as follows:
- Eastern Province: Includes Jubail, Khobar, Khafji, Dammam, Qatif, and Ras Tanura.
- Makkah Region: The governorates of Al Qunfudhah, Al Lith, Al Kamil, in addition to the highlands in Taif and Maysan, are affected.
- Medina: includes Wadi Al-Fara, Al-Ais, and Khaybar.
- Al-Baha region: It includes villages, Al-Mandaq, Al-Baha city, Baljurashi, and Bani Hassan.
- Asir region: includes Abha, Al Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, and Khamis Mushait.
Climate context and the importance of the warning
This weather condition comes in the context of the usual weather fluctuations during transitional periods and the winter season in the Kingdom, where high humidity levels and low minimum temperatures contribute to the formation of dense fog, especially on the coastal areas in the East and West, as well as on the mountainous highlands in Asir, Al-Baha and Taif.
This warning is of utmost importance given the direct impact of fog on traffic flow and road safety. In such conditions, visibility is significantly reduced, increasing the likelihood of traffic accidents if safe driving practices are not followed. Authorities, such as the General Directorate of Traffic and Road Security, typically advise reducing speed, using fog lights (not high beams), and maintaining a safe following distance to ensure safe stopping in emergencies.
The role of the National Center for Meteorology
The National Center for Meteorology continues its vital role in monitoring weather conditions around the clock using the latest monitoring technologies and satellites, with the aim of providing accurate and proactive information that contributes to protecting lives and property. These early warnings are an essential tool for service providers and citizens to adjust their movements and activities according to prevailing weather conditions, reflecting the significant development in the Kingdom's weather monitoring system.
