Weather forecast for the night of Ramadan crescent sighting: Saudi meteorology reveals chances of visibility
Citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia will turn their eyes to the sky this evening, responding to the Supreme Court's call to sight the crescent moon of Ramadan. In this context, Hussein Al-Qahtani, the official spokesperson for the National Center of Meteorology, revealed the precise details of the expected weather conditions during the night of the sighting, which will play a crucial role in the possibility of observing the crescent, whether with the naked eye or through astronomical telescopes.
Weather forecast and visibility opportunities in the regions
Al-Qahtani explained that weather maps indicate variations in weather conditions across different regions of the Kingdom, which directly impacts the ease or difficulty of the observation process. In the central region , forecasts indicate generally stable weather conditions, enhancing the chances for sighting committees and observers to clearly spot the crescent moon if it is present, as clear skies are the most crucial element for successful observation.
In contrast, moon-sighting committees in the northern and western regions may face weather challenges. The official spokesperson indicated that the sky will be partly to mostly cloudy over the western parts of the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders . This cloud cover may pose a natural obstacle, obscuring horizontal and vertical visibility, thus making it difficult to observe the crescent moon in those areas.
Wind and dust and their impact on Mecca and Medina
Regarding the holy sites, weather forecasts indicate active surface winds stirring up dust and sand. The effects of this weather system are expected to extend to the eastern parts of the Makkah and Madinah . Dust and suspended particles are among the most significant factors reducing horizontal visibility, which may affect the accuracy of observations at astronomical observatories located in these geographical areas.
The importance of integration between meteorological and legal committees
The meteorological report is of paramount importance at this time every year, as the Supreme Court and official moon-sighting committees throughout the Kingdom rely on this data to guide their efforts. The sighting of the new moon is a significant annual event eagerly awaited by the Muslim world to determine the beginning of the holy month. This integration of scientific meteorological data and legitimate astronomical observations ensures the accurate announcement of the start of the month, based on tangible facts and confirmed observations.
Al-Qahtani concluded his remarks by emphasizing that the National Center for Meteorology is monitoring weather developments around the clock, asking God Almighty to bless everyone with security and faith during the holy month, and to accept everyone’s fasting and prayers.
