The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced weather alert for parts of the Riyadh region on Thursday, warning of active winds that will stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility. According to the center's report, this weather phenomenon will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 3:00 PM.
Weather details and affected areas
The center explained that the effects of this weather system include strong winds that may reach speeds that stir up dense dust, significantly reducing horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers. The affected areas and governorates include Al-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Al-Majma'ah, Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, and Shaqra. The center urged residents of these areas to take precautions, especially those traveling on highways and those with respiratory conditions.
Climate context: Dust storms in Saudi Arabia
Dust and sandstorms are a common weather phenomenon in Saudi Arabia, given its predominantly desert geography. The central region, including the capital Riyadh, is periodically affected by dry air masses carrying dust from the vast deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, such as the Nafud and Rub' al Khali. These phenomena are particularly active during seasonal transitions and are exacerbated by strong surface winds associated with low-pressure systems, known locally as "Shamal" winds.
Expected effects and the importance of warnings
These weather phenomena have far-reaching effects that extend beyond mere temporary inconvenience. From a health perspective, airborne dust poses a risk to public health, especially for those with asthma and allergies, as well as the elderly and children, since the fine particles can irritate the respiratory system and eyes. The Ministry of Health advises staying indoors as much as possible during such weather conditions, keeping windows tightly closed, and wearing protective masks when going out for essential purposes.
In terms of transportation, reduced horizontal visibility increases the risk of traffic accidents on roads, necessitating cautious driving and reduced speed. Air traffic may also be affected, with airports, such as King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, potentially facing operational challenges that could lead to delays or rescheduling of some flights to ensure flight safety. Early warnings issued by the National Center of Meteorology play a vital role in enabling relevant authorities and citizens to prepare in advance and take the necessary precautions to mitigate the negative impacts of these weather conditions.
