Warning of widespread weather fluctuations
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia has issued a warning about a series of consecutive weather fluctuations expected to affect most regions of the Kingdom in the coming days. According to the center's statement, this weather pattern will begin on Tuesday and continue until the end of the week, on Saturday. It will be characterized by a significant increase in surface winds, which will stir up dust and sand, leading to reduced horizontal visibility. This will be accompanied by a rise in wave height along the western and eastern coasts.
The climatic and seasonal context of this phenomenon
These weather fluctuations occur within the context of a climatic transition period in the Arabian Peninsula, where the region is affected by changes in atmospheric pressure systems. The Kingdom is known for its vast desert landscape, making it a major source of sand and dust storms, especially when northerly or northwesterly winds, known locally as "Shamal" winds, are active. These phenomena recur periodically during certain times of the year, and their intensity increases when low-pressure systems pass through or when air masses with different characteristics converge, creating ideal conditions for widespread dust storms.
Expected impact and affected areas
The center explained that the peak impact of these active winds will be during daylight hours. The direct effects of the weather system will begin in the Tabuk, Madinah, and Makkah regions, including their coastal areas on the Red Sea. It will also extend to the Al-Jawf, Northern Borders, and Hail regions. The center expects the geographical scope of these fluctuations to gradually expand over the coming days, with the effects later spreading to additional areas in the central, eastern, and southern parts of the Kingdom. The Qassim, Riyadh, and Eastern Province regions, extending as far south as Najran, are all expected to be affected, meaning that the majority of the Kingdom's population will feel the impact of this weather system to varying degrees.
Potential effects on public health and safety
These weather conditions have multiple impacts, most notably on public health. Asthma and respiratory patients are advised to take extreme precautions and avoid going out unless absolutely necessary, and to wear protective masks. Reduced horizontal visibility directly affects transportation safety and may disrupt traffic on intercity highways, in addition to potentially affecting flight schedules at some airports. As for high waves, they pose a risk to maritime activities, and fishermen and beachgoers are advised to avoid entering the sea during this period to ensure their safety.
