The National Center for Meteorology issued new warnings regarding the expected weather conditions on Monday, indicating surface wind activity and dust storms across large parts of the Riyadh and Eastern regions, urging citizens, residents, and highway users to exercise caution.
Weather details for the Riyadh region
The center explained in its report that the Riyadh region will experience a dust storm that will reduce horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers. This weather phenomenon will begin at 12:00 PM and continue until 7:00 PM .
The affected areas in Riyadh include:
- Dawadmi
- chaste
- Al-Zulfi
- Al-Ghat
- The complex
- blond
- Thadiq
- times
Weather conditions in the Eastern Province
In a related development, the meteorological department warned of a similar weather pattern affecting the Eastern Province, where strong winds are stirring up dust and sand, causing reduced horizontal visibility. This condition began at 7:00 AM and is expected to continue until 4:00 PM .
The effects are concentrated in the following governorates:
- Al-Ahsa
- Many
- Abqaiq
- Hafr Al-Batin
Weather forecast for the rest of the Kingdom
The weather fluctuations were not limited to the central and eastern regions, but the National Center for Meteorology predicted high-speed winds that could reach the level of dust storms, leading to an almost complete lack of horizontal visibility in parts of the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders , with the possibility of light rain in those areas.
In contrast, the chances of dense fog forming during the early morning and late night hours continue in the southern and western highlands, including parts of the Madinah, Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir and Jazan regions, which requires extra caution while driving on mountain roads.
Climatic context and effects of the transition season
These weather fluctuations are a natural part of Saudi Arabia's desert climate, especially during the transitional periods between seasons. These periods are typically characterized by rapid changes in atmospheric pressure, generating strong winds capable of carrying dust and sand long distances—a phenomenon known locally as the dust season, which directly impacts daily life.
The importance of warnings and safety measures
These warnings are of paramount importance for public safety, as the dust directly affects those with respiratory illnesses, asthma, and allergies. Experts advise staying indoors as much as possible during peak hours and wearing masks when going out.
This situation also significantly affects traffic, especially on highways and open roads connecting the governorates. Therefore, the competent authorities urge drivers to reduce speed and use warning lights when visibility is low to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
