The National Center for Meteorology issued an important and urgent weather alert for the coming days, revealing that large parts of the Kingdom will be affected by a cold air mass with significant impacts. According to the official report, the direct effects of this air mass will begin on Wednesday and Thursday, covering a wide geographical area including Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, and Al-Qassim regions, extending to the capital, Riyadh. This will lead to sharp weather fluctuations and a dramatic drop in temperatures.
Details of the temperature drop and affected areas
Weather maps and forecasts issued by the center indicate that this upcoming wave will push temperatures to very low levels, potentially the coldest since the beginning of the season in some areas. Minimum temperatures are expected to range between 3 degrees Celsius and -1 degree Celsius, signaling extremely cold conditions, especially in open and desert areas, necessitating the utmost caution.
Climate context: Why does the temperature drop at this time?
This cold wave is occurring within a normal and typical climatic pattern during winter in the Arabian Peninsula, where the Kingdom is usually affected by the advance of dry polar air masses from the north and northeast. This drop in temperature is often associated with the expansion of the Siberian High, which directly impacts the northern and central regions of the Kingdom, causing a sharp and rapid cooling of the atmosphere. The skies are often clear, which increases heat loss from the ground at night through radiation, resulting in what is known as frost.
Important recommendations for public safety
The National Center of Meteorology stressed the need for all citizens and residents in the affected areas to take precautions. The center urged everyone to take necessary measures to protect themselves from colds and the potential effects of frost, especially during the late night and early morning hours when temperatures are at their lowest. Farmers in the northern and central regions are also advised to take necessary precautions to protect their crops from the risk of frost that may form at dawn.
Regarding home safety, the relevant authorities renewed their warnings about the need to deal carefully with different heating methods, whether they are coal heaters or electric heaters, and to ensure that places are well ventilated to avoid suffocation accidents that may increase with the intensification of cold and the closing of windows.
The importance of following official sources
In closing, the official body urged everyone to follow weather reports and real-time updates to alerts issued through its official channels and verified digital platforms. This emphasis aims to ensure access to accurate and up-to-date information on weather developments and to avoid rumors or misinformation that may spread through social media and cause unnecessary confusion.
