Weather warning from the National Center for Meteorology
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced weather alert on Friday for the Najran region, warning of strong winds stirring up dust and sand. The center explained that this weather condition will lead to a significant decrease in horizontal visibility, expected to range between 3 and 5 kilometers. The alert covers the city of Najran and several of its governorates, including Badr Al-Janoub, Habuna, Thar, Yadmah, and Khubash, as well as the Sharurah governorate. The center indicated that these weather conditions began this morning and are expected to continue until 6:00 PM, God willing.
The climatic and geographical context of the Najran region
Dust storms are a frequent occurrence in the Najran region, largely due to its geographical location and climate. Situated in the southwestern part of the Kingdom, the region borders the Rub' al Khali desert, one of the world's largest sand deserts. This proximity makes it susceptible to surface winds that carry large quantities of sand and dust, particularly during seasonal transitions. These winds are typically triggered by low-pressure systems or changes in atmospheric pressure patterns, leading to dust storms and a temporary deterioration in air quality.
Expected effects and the importance of taking precautions
Such weather conditions have direct impacts on public health and road safety. From a health perspective, dust and sand pose a risk to those with respiratory illnesses, asthma, and allergies, who are advised to stay indoors and keep windows tightly closed to avoid inhaling fine particles. Health authorities also recommend wearing protective masks when going outside is necessary.
Regarding traffic safety, reduced visibility increases the risk of accidents on highways and local roads. The General Directorate of Traffic and Civil Defense urges drivers to exercise extreme caution, reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, and use hazard lights to ensure their safety and the safety of others. Such conditions may sometimes necessitate the suspension of outdoor activities at schools or open work sites to protect individuals.
The role of the National Center for Meteorology in protecting lives and property
The National Center of Meteorology plays a vital role in the national safety system through its continuous monitoring of the atmosphere and the issuance of early warnings and alerts. The center relies on the latest technologies and numerical forecasting models to provide accurate and reliable information that helps citizens, residents, and government agencies prepare in advance for various weather phenomena, thus contributing to minimizing their negative impacts on daily life and various economic sectors.
