The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced warning for the Riyadh region, cautioning that it will be affected by active winds stirring up dust and sand, leading to a significant decrease in horizontal visibility. This weather condition is expected to begin tomorrow morning and continue until the evening, encompassing the capital, Riyadh, and several surrounding governorates.
Alert details and affected areas
According to the center's statement, the weather event will begin at 8:00 AM and continue until 6:00 PM. The affected regions and governorates include: Riyadh, Diriyah, Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dhurma, Marat, Al-Hariq, Al-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiya, Hawtat Bani Tamim, Al-Dawadmi, Al-Rayn, Al-Quway'iyah, Afif, Al-Aflaj, As-Sulayyil, Wadi Ad-Dawasir, Az-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Al-Majma'ah, and Shaqra.
The climatic context of dust storms in Saudi Arabia
Dust and sandstorms are a common weather phenomenon in Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula in general, due to its vast desert landscape. These storms increase in frequency during seasonal transitions, particularly in spring and summer. They are caused by the passage of low-pressure systems or surface winds that carry enormous quantities of sand and dust from open desert areas over long distances. The region is known as one of the world's largest sources of dust, making weather warnings routine and vital for public safety.
The importance and expected effects of the warning
This warning carries significant weight on several levels, as its impact goes beyond a mere passing weather event:
- At the local level: Reduced visibility directly impacts traffic safety on highways and local roads, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Dust also poses a health risk, particularly for the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma. Health authorities consistently recommend staying indoors and avoiding going out unless absolutely necessary. Air traffic at local airports may also be affected.
- At the regional level: Major dust storms can cross national borders, affecting air quality in neighboring Gulf countries. This regional dimension of the phenomenon necessitates cooperation and information sharing among meteorological centers in the region to ensure better preparedness.
This warning comes as part of a series of forecasts issued by the center that include other regions of the Kingdom, where active winds stirring up dust and sand continue in parts of the Tabuk, Madinah, and Makkah regions, in addition to parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, Hail, Al-Qassim and the Eastern Province, reflecting a state of widespread atmospheric instability.
