Weather forecast in Saudi Arabia: Dust storm and strong winds continue
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather report, forecasting continued surface wind activity that will stir up dust and sand on Wednesday. The report explained that this weather phenomenon will affect large parts of seven major regions, potentially leading to a significant decrease in horizontal visibility, with extended impacts on maritime traffic and navigation in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.
The areas directly affected include Qassim, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, with the impact of the active winds extending to parts of Najran. Parts of Makkah, Madinah, and Tabuk, particularly their coastal areas, will also be affected. Additionally, the center warned of the possibility of fog formation during the night and early morning hours in the highlands of Jazan and Asir, as well as in parts of Al-Jawf and the Northern Borders region.
The climatic context of weather phenomena in the Kingdom
Dust storms and strong winds are common weather phenomena in Saudi Arabia, given its geography, which consists mostly of vast deserts such as the Rub' al Khali and the Nafud al Kabir. These phenomena increase in frequency during seasonal transitions, particularly in spring, when changes in atmospheric pressure systems cause winds to carry large quantities of sand and dust from the open desert areas. The National Center for Meteorology continuously monitors these phenomena and issues necessary warnings to protect lives and property.
Expected effects and safety guidelines
These weather conditions have direct impacts on various aspects of daily life. In terms of health, asthma and respiratory patients, the elderly, and children are advised to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary, and to wear protective masks. Regarding transportation, reduced horizontal visibility, which can drop to between 1 and 3 kilometers in some areas, increases the risk of traffic accidents on highways and may also affect air traffic, causing delays or cancellations. Authorities such as Civil Defense and Traffic Police urge drivers to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits.
Red Sea situation
- Wind direction: Northwesterly to northeasterly at a speed of 20-48 km/h on the northern and central parts, and northwesterly to northerly at a speed of 12-38 km/h on the southern part.
- Wave height: from one meter to two and a half meters on the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to one and a half meters on the southern part.
- Sea state: Moderate to rough in the northern and central parts, and slight to moderate in the southern part.
Arabian Gulf situation
- Wind direction: Northwesterly to Southwesterly at a speed of 20-45 km/h.
- Wave height: from one meter to two meters.
- Sea state: Moderate waves.
