The National Center for Meteorology issued today a series of important weather alerts concerning the Madinah region, warning of weather fluctuations including surface wind activity and the formation of dense fog in a number of governorates, which calls for caution and vigilance on the part of citizens, residents and drivers.
Weather details: High winds and waves
The center explained in its daily report that the region is experiencing significant surface wind activity, particularly affecting coastal and open areas such as Al-Rais and Yanbu . These winds are reaching speeds of 40 to 49 kilometers per hour, a rate that typically stirs up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility.
Regarding the maritime conditions, the report indicated that these winds will cause high waves along the Red Sea coast, which may affect maritime navigation, fishing, and small boats. The center specified that this weather pattern will begin at 7:00 AM and continue until 5:00 PM today, urging those at sea and on coastal roads to exercise caution.
Dense fog obscures visibility
Concurrently with the wind activity, the meteorological department warned of another weather phenomenon affecting inland and mountainous areas, with fog expected in the governorates of Al-Hanakiya, Al-Mahd, Badr, and Wadi Al-Fara . The center reported that this condition will lead to a sharp decrease in horizontal visibility, ranging between 1 and 3 kilometers, and possibly less in open areas.
The fog begins in the early morning hours, specifically from 1:00 AM, and continues until 8:00 AM, which is the peak time for morning traffic, thus doubling the importance of the warning.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These weather fluctuations are part of the typical climate pattern for this time of year, as the Kingdom's regions, particularly the Madinah region with its diverse geography ranging from coasts to mountains, experience periods of atmospheric instability resulting from the interaction of air masses. These warnings are of paramount importance given the nature of the highways connecting the governorates of Madinah, which experience heavy traffic.
Historically, coastal areas such as Yanbu are prone to active monsoon winds that affect maritime and port activities, while inland areas form a fertile environment for the formation of radiation fog during the early morning hours due to low temperatures and high humidity.
Safety recommendations and guidelines
The National Center for Meteorology and traffic safety authorities stressed the need to adhere to the following instructions:
- Reduce speed when driving on roads that are foggy or dusty, and use vehicle fog lights.
- Avoid going to sea in areas with high waves to protect lives.
- Follow the updated weather bulletins through the official channels of the National Center for Meteorology to avoid rumors and inaccurate information.
The center continues to monitor the weather around the clock to issue any updates or early warnings that contribute to protecting lives and property, as part of its vital role to promote public safety in the Kingdom.
