The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an important alert for residents of the Northern Borders region, warning of a strong cold wave that will begin to have noticeable effects starting next Tuesday and continuing until Thursday. This alert comes as part of the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions and atmospheric fluctuations experienced in various regions of the Kingdom during the winter season.
The report issued by the center explained that the cold wave will cause a significant and sharp drop in temperatures, with minimum temperatures expected to range between 2 degrees Celsius and -2 degrees Celsius (-2°C). This drop will affect most of the region's governorates and cities, necessitating caution from citizens and residents.
The nature of the climate in northern regions and the influence of polar air masses
The Northern Borders region, by virtue of its geographical location, is the primary gateway for cold air masses arriving from Siberia or the eastern Mediterranean. Cities like Tarif, Arar, and Rafha are characterized by a continental desert climate, making them prone to recording the lowest temperatures in the Kingdom during the winter months. Historically, these areas have recorded record-breaking sub-zero temperatures, leading in some years to snowfall and frost formation on rooftops and in open areas—a recurring seasonal phenomenon that is considered part of the region's climatic identity.
Expected effects and safety measures
With temperatures dropping below freezing, the risk of frost increases in the early morning hours, potentially affecting crops and highway traffic. The significant temperature difference between day and night can also contribute to fog formation, reducing horizontal visibility, requiring drivers to exercise extreme caution while driving.
On the health and safety front, the relevant authorities and the National Center for Meteorology called on everyone to adhere to the following instructions:
- Wearing heavy winter clothing, especially for children and the elderly, is recommended to avoid colds and seasonal illnesses.
- Careful handling of different heating methods, whether electric heaters or coal and wood heaters, and the necessity of providing adequate ventilation in homes to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning accidents.
- Follow weather forecasts regularly through official channels to stay updated on the weather situation moment by moment.
Weather experts confirm that these cold waves are normal at this time of year, as upper-level low-pressure systems deepen and push polar air towards the southern Arabian Peninsula, creating harsh winter conditions that require good preparation to deal with them consciously and responsibly.
