Weather in Saudi Arabia: Dense fog covers 9 regions and urgent warnings issued

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather , warning of widespread fog affecting large parts of the Kingdom. The center explained that nine administrative regions will experience varying levels of fog density during the early morning hours of Thursday, with the situation reaching its peak with very dense fog forming over the Asir region. This necessitates caution from motorists.

Weather details and warning timing

According to the early warning system, the weather phenomenon will begin at 11:00 PM Wednesday/Thursday and continue until 9:00 AM Thursday. The effects of this weather system will range from a significant reduction in horizontal visibility to 3-5 kilometers in some areas, while other locations will experience near-zero visibility (1-3 kilometers). In areas experiencing dense fog, particularly in higher elevations, horizontal visibility may drop to less than one kilometer.

Areas and cities affected by the situation

The report included a detailed breakdown of the affected cities and governorates in the nine regions, which are as follows:

• Asir region (most affected): includes Al Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, Abha, Ahad Rafidah, Al Farsha, Khamis Mushait, and Sarat Abidah.
• Eastern Province: Jubail, Khobar, Khafji, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, and Abqaiq.
• Makkah Region: Adham, Maysan, Taif, Al-Muwayh, Turbah, and Al-Ardiyat.
• Medina: Al-Rais and Yanbu.
• Al-Baha region: Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Al-Baha, Baljurashi, and Bani Hassan.
• Northern borders: Al-Uwaiqilah, Arar, and Tarif.
• Al-Jawf region: Dumat Al-Jandal, Sakaka, Al-Qurayyat, and Tabarjal.
• Tabuk region: Tayma and Tabuk.
• Jazan region: Al-Harth, Al-Dayer, Al-Raith, Al-Ardah, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, and Haroub.

The geographical and climatic context of the phenomenon

This weather pattern is typical of the climatic shifts that occur during transitional periods and winter in Saudi Arabia. Mountainous regions such as Asir, Al-Baha, and Taif are known for their high altitude, which causes clouds to touch the ground, forming dense fog known locally as "mountain fog." In contrast, coastal areas like the Eastern Province and Yanbu are affected by "radiation fog," or transport fog, resulting from high surface humidity combined with low nighttime temperatures. This phenomenon occurs annually and directly impacts maritime traffic and highways.

The importance of the warning and its impact on public safety

These warnings are of paramount importance for preserving lives and property, as fog is a major natural cause of chain-reaction traffic accidents due to the sudden loss of visibility. Relevant authorities, including traffic and road safety, consistently emphasize the need to reduce speeds, use fog lights, and avoid high beams, which impair visibility in such conditions. Adherence to the National Center of Meteorology's instructions is crucial for minimizing potential risks during morning commutes, especially for schoolchildren and employees traveling between governorates.