The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather Monday, revealing weather fluctuations affecting several regions in Saudi Arabia. The report included forecasts of active surface winds stirring up dust and sand, which could lead to reduced horizontal visibility, particularly in parts of Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, and the Eastern Province.
In a related context, the report indicated the possibility of dense fog forming during the night and early morning hours, urging drivers on highways to exercise caution. This warning includes parts of the aforementioned regions, as well as parts of the Tabuk and Madinah regions, and the fog's effects will extend to the western and southwestern highlands of the Kingdom.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These weather fluctuations are part of the typical climatic patterns for this time of year, as the Kingdom experiences transitional periods characterized by active surface winds and changes in atmospheric pressure. These reports are of paramount importance locally to ensure the safety of citizens and residents, particularly regarding road safety and maritime navigation, as well as the impact of dust on those with respiratory conditions, thus necessitating continuous monitoring of weather forecasts.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the maritime situation, the center provided the following details:
- Red Sea: Northwesterly to northerly surface winds prevail over the northern and central parts, while southeasterly to southerly winds prevail over the southern part. Wind speeds range from 15 to 30 km/h, reaching up to 45 km/h with the formation of thunderstorms and rain. Wave heights range from half a meter to one and a half meters, reaching up to two meters, resulting in a slight to moderate sea state, becoming rough in the southern and central parts.
- The Arabian Gulf: It is experiencing southeasterly to southerly winds at a speed of 15-35 km/h, reaching 45 km/h with thunderstorms in the northern part, with waves reaching up to two meters high and a partially turbulent sea state.
Rain alerts for the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology issued a special alert for the Eastern Province regarding light rainfall , with chances of precipitation continuing through the early morning hours until 9:00 AM on Monday. The affected cities and governorates included Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, Abqaiq, Ras Tanura, Nairyah, Qaryat Al-Ulya, Al-Ahsa, and Khafji.
The center warned of the effects associated with this situation, which include surface wind activity, reduced horizontal visibility, and the possibility of thunderstorms, calling on everyone to follow public safety guidelines while driving and to avoid open areas during thunderstorms.
