Advanced warning from Saudi Meteorology
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued a weather alert on Thursday for the Al-Jawf region, warning of strong winds that will stir up dust and sand. The center explained in its report that the weather conditions will affect the city of Sakaka, as well as three other governorates in the region: Dumat Al-Jandal, Al-Qurayyat, and Tabuk, urging residents to take precautions.
According to the alert, this weather condition is expected to cause a significant decrease in horizontal visibility, potentially dropping to between 1 and 3 kilometers in some areas, and to between 3 and 5 kilometers in others. The center indicated that these weather conditions will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 7:00 PM this Thursday, urging everyone to follow the ongoing weather updates.
The climatic context of the Al-Jawf region
The Al-Jawf region, located in northern Saudi Arabia, is known for its continental desert climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters. Sandstorms and strong winds are frequent occurrences in the region, especially during seasonal transitions. These phenomena typically arise from the passage of low-pressure systems or the influence of air masses with varying temperatures and pressures, leading to active surface winds that stir up dust and sand from the vast desert lands surrounding the region.
Importance and expected effects of the weather conditions
These weather warnings are of great importance on several levels, as they directly affect public safety and the daily lives of residents.
- Locally: Reduced visibility poses a significant risk to traffic on highways and main roads connecting the region's cities and governorates, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Those with respiratory conditions, asthma, the elderly, and children are advised to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary to prevent health problems resulting from inhaling dust. Air traffic at Al-Jawf Regional Airport may be slightly affected, potentially leading to some flight delays.
- Regionally: These dust storms are often part of broader weather systems affecting other areas in the north of the Kingdom, and their effects sometimes extend to neighboring countries such as Jordan and Iraq, reflecting the interconnected nature of climatic phenomena in the Arabian Peninsula.
The relevant authorities, led by the General Directorate of Civil Defense, are working to raise the level of preparedness to deal with any emergency that may result from these weather conditions, and are issuing continuous guidelines to citizens and residents to ensure their safety.
