The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued a weather warning regarding expected strong surface winds that will stir up dust and sand, affecting large parts of the Kingdom on Tuesday and Wednesday. The center urged citizens and residents to take precautions and follow the necessary guidelines to deal with these weather conditions.
Areas affected by the dust storm
According to the center's statement, the effects are expected to begin in the northern and northwestern regions, including Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and the Northern Borders. The dust storm will also extend to parts of the Eastern Province, as well as Hail, Al-Qassim, and the capital, Riyadh. The center indicated the possibility of these winds reaching parts of the Makkah and Madinah regions, requiring particular attention in those areas due to their high population density and heavy traffic.
The climatic context of dust storms in the Kingdom
Sand and dust storms are a frequent weather phenomenon in Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula in general, due to its geography, which consists mostly of vast deserts such as the Rub' al Khali and the Nafud al-Kabir. These phenomena are usually active during the transitional periods between seasons, especially in spring and autumn, when changes in atmospheric pressure systems cause strong winds capable of carrying enormous quantities of sand and dust over long distances.
Expected effects and safety guidelines
These dust storms have direct impacts on public health and safety, most notably:
- Health effects: Dust poses a risk to those with respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies, as well as the elderly and children. Therefore, it is strongly advised to stay indoors as much as possible, keep windows and doors tightly closed, and wear masks when absolutely necessary to go out.
- Road and Transportation Safety: Dust storms cause a sharp decrease in horizontal visibility, increasing the risk of accidents on highways. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, use headlights, and pull over if visibility becomes completely obscured.
- Impact on air navigation: Air traffic at airports located within the aforementioned areas may be affected, which may lead to the postponement or cancellation of some flights to ensure passenger safety.
The National Center for Meteorology emphasizes the importance of following the weather updates and reports issued by it through its official channels, and adhering to the instructions of the relevant authorities such as the Civil Defense and the Ministry of Health to ensure everyone’s safety.
