Weather in Saudi Arabia: Temperatures and forecast for today

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather report, revealing forecasts for temperatures and weather phenomena across the Kingdom's cities and regions for Saturday. The report showed a noticeable variation in temperatures, with the capital, Riyadh, recording 27 degrees Celsius, while Dammam reached 23 degrees, Mecca 31 degrees, and Medina 29 degrees Celsius, reflecting the significant climatic diversity that characterizes the Kingdom's geography.

General context and the role of the meteorological center

The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) is the official and primary authority responsible for monitoring weather and climate conditions in Saudi Arabia. Established to be the trusted source for accurate information and early warnings aimed at protecting lives and property and supporting sustainable development, the center relies on a vast network of weather stations, satellite imagery, and advanced numerical modeling systems to analyze data and issue highly accurate weather forecasts. These forecasts play a vital role in various sectors, including aviation, agriculture, water resource management, and urban planning.

The importance and impact of weather forecasts

These daily reports are of paramount importance locally, as citizens and residents rely on them to plan their daily activities and take necessary precautions, especially when weather phenomena such as sandstorms or thunderstorms are expected. For example, the expected strong winds and dust storms in Riyadh and Al-Kharj affect air quality and traffic, while the forecast for thunderstorms in Abha, Al-Baha, and Taif calls for caution in mountainous and elevated areas. Regionally, this data contributes to understanding the movement of air masses and weather systems in the Arabian Peninsula, which is essential for maritime navigation in the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea. Internationally, Saudi climate data is an integral part of the global monitoring network and plays a vital role in studies of global climate change. It is also crucial for ensuring the safety of the millions of pilgrims who visit the Kingdom annually.

Details of the expected weather conditions

According to the center's statement, some regions are experiencing weather phenomena that warrant attention. While clear and stable weather prevails in Medina and Hail, partly cloudy skies are expected in Jeddah and Tabuk. Areas such as Riyadh, Dawadmi, and Hafr Al-Batin are experiencing active winds that may stir up dust and reduce horizontal visibility. Conversely, the southwestern highlands, including Abha, Al-Baha, and As-Soudah, are experiencing a chance of thunderstorms accompanied by active winds, leading to scattered rainfall. Below is a detailed table of expected maximum and minimum temperatures and weather phenomena in the Kingdom's major cities: