The National Center for Meteorology issued a detailed and comprehensive report on the expected weather conditions coinciding with the start of the mid-year school break for the academic year 1447 AH . The center provided citizens, residents, and travelers with a clear picture of potential weather fluctuations. The report warned of a range of significant weather phenomena, including strong winds causing dust storms, varying rainfall, and a noticeable drop in temperatures, necessitating caution during travel and road trips.
Wind activity and reduced horizontal visibility
Official forecasts indicate a significant increase in surface winds, stirring up dust and sand, with these winds expected to intensify particularly during daylight hours. The danger of this weather condition lies in the potential for a substantial reduction in horizontal visibility in open areas and on highways connecting cities, posing a challenge for drivers and holiday travelers.
The report identified the areas most affected by these dust storms as including large parts of:
- Tabuk region
- Al-Jawf region
- Northern borders
- Hail region
- Makkah Region
- Madinah region
The effects of the active winds and dust extend to the Qassim, Riyadh and Eastern regions, which requires those using the highways in these areas to exercise extreme caution.
Signs of rain and cold waves
In a related development, the National Center for Meteorology announced the imminent arrival of rain towards the end of this week, with varying intensities expected in parts of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders region, and Hail, as well as the highlands and coastal areas of Makkah and Madinah. This rainfall is expected to replenish the western and northern regions, heralding a promising spring season.
The weather forecast warned of a noticeable drop in temperatures at night and in the early morning, especially in the northern regions of the Kingdom and the southwestern highlands, which may experience fog and frost formation, necessitating the wearing of appropriate winter clothing and avoidance of cold air currents.
The importance of weather forecasts during the school year
These reports are doubly important as they coincide with the school holiday season, a time when the Kingdom experiences widespread travel between regions and an increase in desert trips and family outings. Accurate meteorological information plays a vital role in protecting lives and property, as the Civil Defense and security agencies rely on it to enhance their preparedness for any emergency.
The Kingdom typically experiences weather fluctuations at this time of year due to the passage of low-pressure systems from the Mediterranean Sea or the influence of cold air masses, making it essential to follow weather forecasts. The center urged everyone to closely monitor daily reports through official platforms and to exercise caution in cases of reduced visibility or low temperatures, wishing students and their families a happy and safe holiday.
