Meteorology: Active winds and dust storms in Tarif, Northern Borders

Meteorology: Active winds and dust storms in Tarif, Northern Borders

19.02.2026
6 mins read
The National Center of Meteorology has issued a warning of strong winds reaching speeds of up to 49 km/h in Tarif, leading to reduced visibility. See details and timing of the event.

Weather alert from the National Center of Meteorology

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued a weather alert for the Tarf region in the Northern Borders Province, warning of strong winds starting Friday morning. According to the alert, wind speeds are expected to reach between 40 and 49 kilometers per hour, causing dust storms and significantly reducing horizontal visibility. The center explained that this weather condition will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 6:00 PM on the same day, urging everyone to take precautions.

The climatic context of the Northern Borders region

The Northern Borders region, located in the far north of the Kingdom, is known for its continental desert climate, characterized by significant temperature variations between summer and winter, and between day and night. This region is prone to rapid weather changes, especially during seasonal transitions. Active winds and dust storms are common weather phenomena in the area, usually influenced by low-pressure systems originating from the north or by the impact of different air masses. These phenomena play a role in shaping the daily lives and activities of the inhabitants, requiring constant preparedness to mitigate their effects.

The importance and expected effects of the warning

The importance of these warnings lies in maintaining public safety and minimizing potential risks. Locally, strong winds and reduced visibility are expected to directly impact transportation, particularly on highways connecting Tarif to other cities in the region and the Kingdom, requiring drivers to exercise extreme caution. Those with respiratory conditions, asthma, the elderly, and children are advised to stay indoors and avoid direct exposure to dust and sand. More broadly, such weather conditions could affect outdoor activities, construction work, and agriculture in the region. The issuance of early warnings by the National Center of Meteorology allows relevant authorities, such as Civil Defense, traffic police, and health agencies, to prepare in advance and raise their level of readiness to deal with any emergency that may arise from these weather conditions.

Safety guidelines

  • Drivers are advised to reduce speed and leave a safe distance.
  • The need to secure objects that could fly away from the roofs of houses and buildings.
  • Avoid going out unless absolutely necessary during periods of high wind activity.
  • Follow the updates and reports issued by the National Center for Meteorology.

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