One of the most prominent media figures who has been associated with the memory of Saudis for decades, the veteran meteorologist and weather forecaster on Saudi television, Hassan Karani , passed away today, Friday, after a long and fruitful career during which he left an indelible mark in the field of media and meteorology.
A pioneering career in meteorology
The late Hassan Karani was a pioneer and founder of televised weather forecasting in Saudi Arabia. Karani was not merely a weather presenter; he was an academic specialist in the field, having graduated from Saint Louis University in the United States with a degree in meteorology in the late 1970s. He dedicated his academic knowledge to serving viewers, working for many years as a weather forecasting team coordinator and contributing directly to the development of methods for presenting climate maps, transforming them from dry scientific data into simplified information easily understood by the average viewer.
A symbol of the "golden generation"
Hassan Karani's name is synonymous with what is known as the "golden generation" of Saudi television, an era when state television was the primary and sole source of information and entertainment. During that time, Karani's weather forecast was a daily ritual, drawing Saudi families together to learn about the weather, especially given the fluctuating conditions across the Kingdom. The late Karani was distinguished by his dignified manner, calm voice, and charismatic presence, which earned him high credibility and widespread trust among all segments of society.
"Thank you for listening"... a phrase that will remain etched in memory
Perhaps what will remain most vivid in the minds of his fans is his famous refrain with which he concluded his weather forecasts: “Thank you for listening… With best wishes .” This simple phrase has, over time, become his trademark and a part of the collective memory of Saudis, reflecting his refined manners and respectful way of interacting with his audience. Karani succeeded in creating a friendly connection on screen, transcending the formality that the scientific content of weather forecasts can sometimes impose.
An unforgettable legacy
With the passing of Hassan Karani, the Saudi media landscape has lost a towering figure who contributed significantly to the establishment and development of specialized media work. Despite technological advancements and the emergence of modern weather applications, Karani maintained his position as the "Master of Weather" in the Kingdom, a witness to the transformations and evolution of Saudi media. May God have mercy on him and grant his family and loved ones patience and solace.
