Weather forecast in Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather report, forecasting continued weather fluctuations across large parts of the country. The report warned of active surface winds stirring up dust and sand, leading to reduced horizontal visibility in parts of seven major regions: the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, Hail, Al-Qassim, Madinah, and Riyadh. The center indicated that the effects of these winds would extend to the eastern parts of the western and southwestern highlands of the Kingdom.
Dust phenomena: a climatic and geographical context
Dust storms and dust-laden winds are a common weather phenomenon in Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula in general, due to its geography, which includes vast desert areas such as the Rub' al Khali and the Nafud al-Kabir. These phenomena are most active during seasonal transitions and are influenced by varying atmospheric pressure systems that push dry, fast-moving air masses across the deserts, carrying enormous quantities of sand and dust. These phenomena directly affect air quality and the daily lives of residents, requiring special preparations from individuals and relevant authorities.
Expected effects and health guidelines
These dust storms have widespread effects, most notably on health. Asthma and respiratory patients, the elderly, and children are advised to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary and to wear protective masks. Reduced visibility also significantly impacts transportation safety, increasing the risk of driving on highways, and air traffic at airports in affected areas may be disrupted. The General Directorate of Civil Defense and traffic departments typically issue warnings to drivers to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits.
Dense fog is expected
In addition to the dust storm, the National Center for Meteorology predicted continued fog formation during the night and early morning hours in parts of the Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan regions. The fog could reduce horizontal visibility to near or zero, particularly along the coastal areas of the Eastern Province, further complicating travel in these regions.
Red Sea situation
- Surface winds: Southeasterly to southwesterly at a speed of 10-25 km/h.
- Wave height: from half a meter to one meter.
- Sea state: Light waves.
Arabian Gulf situation
- Surface winds: Southeasterly to southerly over the northern and central parts at a speed of 15-30 km/h, and northwesterly to westerly over the southern part at a speed of 10-25 km/h.
- Wave height: from half a meter to one and a half meters on the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to one meter on the southern part.
- Sea state: Light to moderate waves in the northern and central parts, and light waves in the southern part.
