The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued an important and urgent warning to citizens and residents, warning that the Kingdom’s atmosphere will be affected by a strong cold air wave, which is expected to lead to a significant and sharp drop in temperatures, bringing back the harsh winter weather.
According to the center's report issued today, this weather system will begin to have a noticeable impact starting next Saturday and continuing until Tuesday, with temperatures expected to drop significantly, reaching and even falling below freezing in some areas. The forecast includes large parts of Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Tabuk, Hail, Al-Qassim, and Riyadh regions, as well as the northern parts of the Eastern Province.
Details of expected temperatures
The center explained in its report that the minimum temperatures during this period will range between two degrees Celsius above zero to two degrees Celsius below zero (-2), which calls for taking precautions, especially in the late night and early morning hours.
Climate context and expected impacts
This cold wave is part of the typical weather fluctuations for this time of year, as the Arabian Peninsula is affected by polar air masses from the north, often accompanied by Siberian high-pressure systems that significantly cool the air in desert and open areas. The northern and central regions of the Kingdom are particularly vulnerable to these waves due to their open geography, which allows cold winds to penetrate rapidly.
Important recommendations for public safety
Due to temperatures dropping below zero, weather experts and relevant authorities advise following these safety guidelines:
- Wearing heavy winter clothing: especially for children and the elderly when going out of the house.
- Caution should be exercised when using heating appliances, whether coal heaters or electric heaters, to ensure that no cases of suffocation or fires occur, and that enclosed spaces are ventilated.
- Pay attention while driving: Layers of frost may form on the outer roads in the early morning hours, which may affect tire grip, in addition to the possibility of reduced horizontal visibility in the event of surface winds stirring up dust and sand, which often accompany the front of these cold waves.
This wave is also expected to have an impact on the agricultural sector in the aforementioned areas, where farmers are advised to take the necessary measures to protect their crops from the risk of frost that may form as a result of the significant drop in temperatures.
