The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an important warning regarding the expected weather conditions in the coming days, as several regions prepare to receive a severe cold wave, bringing back memories of the harsh winter weather that the northern and central regions usually experience at this time of year.
Weather details and affected areas
In an official statement, the spokesperson for the National Center for Meteorology, Hussein Al-Qahtani, revealed that the Kingdom will experience a cold air mass starting tomorrow, leading to a significant and sharp drop in temperatures. Al-Qahtani explained that the most affected areas, which will record the lowest temperatures, include Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, and the northern parts of the Madinah region. Digital forecasts indicate that minimum temperatures in these areas will range from 3 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius (-1°C), necessitating the taking of necessary precautions against potential frost.
The impact of the wave on Riyadh and the Eastern Province
The warning wasn't limited to the northern regions; the official spokesperson indicated that the cold air mass would extend its reach to the Qassim region and the northern parts of the Riyadh and Eastern regions. Temperatures in these areas are expected to range between 1 and 4 degrees Celsius. Al-Qahtani emphasized that the continuation of this cold wave depends on prevailing weather conditions and the movement of air masses, necessitating continuous monitoring of the daily reports issued by the center.
Climate context and safety measures
This cold wave is part of the Kingdom's normal winter weather patterns, as the country is typically affected by Siberian high-pressure systems or polar air masses from the north, which significantly lower temperatures, especially in open and desert areas. The northern regions of the Kingdom are the first to experience these cold waves before they penetrate towards the central and eastern regions.
In light of these forecasts, the National Center of Meteorology reiterated its call for citizens and residents to exercise caution and adhere to public safety instructions issued by relevant authorities such as the Civil Defense. This includes wearing heavy winter clothing, taking care when using various heating methods (coal, firewood, electric heaters) to avoid suffocation or fires, and driving cautiously in the early morning hours due to the possibility of frost or fog that could reduce horizontal visibility.
