Saudi Arabia weather today: Temperature drops in Tarif and dust covers the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology revealed in its report on the expected weather conditions for Sunday, January 18, a noticeable decrease in temperatures in the northern regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the governorate of Tarif topping the list of the coldest cities, recording only one degree Celsius as a minimum temperature, reflecting the peak of the cold wave affecting those regions.
Temperature details in the cities of the Kingdom
In the detailed weather report, Arar and Sakaka recorded the second-lowest temperatures at 2 degrees Celsius, followed by Qurayyat at 3 degrees Celsius. The drop in temperatures extended to other areas, with Qaisumah, Al-Ahsa, Dammam, Rafha, Tabuk, and Hail all recording lows of 6 degrees Celsius. This necessitates taking precautions and wearing heavy winter clothing, especially for children and the elderly during the night and early morning hours.
Climate context and the impact of cold waves
These weather fluctuations are part of the typical January climate pattern in the Kingdom, which marks the peak of winter. The northern and northeastern regions are usually affected by cold air masses from the north, leading to a sharp drop in temperatures, sometimes approaching freezing point, and the formation of frost. This data is particularly important for farmers and livestock breeders in these areas to take the necessary measures to protect their crops and livestock from the severe cold waves.
Weather phenomena: wind, dust, and rain
The National Center for Meteorology indicated that surface winds will continue to stir up dust and sand, potentially reducing horizontal visibility. This will affect the eastern parts of the western and southwestern highlands, extending to parts of the Madinah, Hail, Qassim, and Riyadh regions, and reaching the northern parts of the Eastern Province. The report also noted the possibility of scattered rain and fog in parts of these areas, as well as the Al-Jawf and Northern Borders regions.
Weather impact on traffic and navigation
This weather condition directly impacts road traffic and travel, requiring drivers on highways connecting these areas to exercise caution due to dust storms, reduced visibility, and the risk of skidding with the possibility of rain. Authorities typically increase their presence on the ground in such conditions to ensure road safety.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the maritime conditions, the report indicated that the Red Sea is experiencing northwesterly to northerly surface winds in its northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southerly winds in the south, with speeds reaching 45 km/h accompanied by thunderstorms, leading to wave heights of up to two meters. In the Arabian Gulf, the winds are northwesterly, also reaching speeds of 45 km/h, with thunderstorms and rain in the northern part, resulting in rough sea conditions and requiring caution from seafarers and fishermen.
