The National Center for Meteorology issued a detailed report on the expected weather conditions for today, Tuesday, warning of weather fluctuations affecting several regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The most prominent feature is dust storms and strong winds that may significantly reduce horizontal visibility, necessitating caution from citizens and residents, especially those traveling on highways.
Weather details for the Riyadh region
The center explained that the Riyadh region will experience active surface winds stirring up dust and sand. This weather phenomenon will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 5:00 PM. The warning covers a large number of governorates and centers, including the capital, Riyadh, as well as Diriyah, Dawadmi, Ar-Rin, Al-Quway'iyah, Afif, Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dhurma, Marat, Az-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Al-Majma'ah, and Shaqra. Horizontal visibility in these areas is expected to range between 3 and 5 kilometers, requiring extra caution while driving.
Weather in the Eastern Province
In a related development, the meteorological department issued a warning about a similar weather system affecting parts of the Eastern Province. The phenomenon began early in Hafr Al-Batin at 4:00 AM, and will extend to Al-Khafji, Al-Nu'ayriyah, and Qaryat Al-Ulya starting at 9:00 AM, with effects continuing until 5:00 PM. The system is characterized by strong winds stirring up dust, leading to reduced horizontal visibility.
Forecast for northern regions and highlands
The forecast wasn't limited to the central and eastern regions; the report also indicated strong winds, potentially reaching dust storm levels, which could cause near-zero visibility in parts of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and the Northern Borders regions, with a chance of light rain. Thunderstorms are also expected in the northern parts of the Eastern Province and the western and southwestern highlands, with the possibility of fog forming during the night and early morning hours.
Climate context and seasonal effects
These weather fluctuations are part of the typical climatic patterns in the Arabian Peninsula during the transitional periods between seasons, when surface winds become active due to differences in atmospheric pressure. The desert geography of the Kingdom plays a significant role in the rapid stirring up of dust and sand when winds intensify, directly impacting air quality and visibility.
Safety guidelines and general importance
Given the impact of these conditions on public health and road safety, experts consistently advise following the guidelines of relevant authorities, such as the Civil Defense and the Ministry of Health. Those with respiratory illnesses and asthma are advised to avoid direct exposure to dust. Drivers are also strongly urged to maintain safe distances and use hazard lights when visibility is reduced, especially on highways connecting Riyadh to the Eastern Province and the northern regions, to ensure everyone's safety.
