Various regions of Saudi Arabia experienced a significant and sharp drop in temperatures today, with Rafha Governorate recording the lowest temperature at -2 degrees Celsius, reflecting the peak of the cold wave affecting the northern regions. Hafr Al-Batin and Arar Governorates also recorded 0 degrees Celsius, while temperatures in Sakaka and Hail remained at 1 degree Celsius. Tarif recorded 2 degrees Celsius, while temperatures varied in Riyadh, Buraidah, and Dawadmi, reaching 4 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperature in Al-Ahsa was 5 degrees Celsius.
National Center of Meteorology forecast and weather conditions
The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily report indicating continued weather fluctuations and emphasizing the need for caution, particularly regarding horizontal visibility. The center predicted active surface winds that will stir up dust and sand, potentially leading to near-zero visibility across large areas, including the regions of Makkah, Madinah, and Tabuk. These effects will extend to the western parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, Hail, and Riyadh regions, reaching as far as parts of Najran and the Eastern Province. The center also forecasts partly to mostly cloudy skies with a chance of scattered light rain in parts of northern Saudi Arabia.
Climate context and the impact of cold waves
These sharp drops in temperature are part of the typical winter weather patterns in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the northern and central regions. These areas are usually affected by cold air masses from the north, which contribute to frost formation and sub-zero temperatures, especially during the night and early morning hours. Monitoring this weather pattern is crucial for farmers to protect their crops from frost, as well as for travelers on highways connecting cities, which are often affected by dust storms.
Sea conditions and maritime navigation
Regarding the maritime conditions, the report indicated that the Red Sea is experiencing surface winds ranging from 18 to 42 km/h in its northern and central parts, shifting to southeasterly in the southern part. Wind speeds may reach 55 km/h towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, leading to wave heights of up to 2.5 meters, resulting in rough sea conditions in those areas. In the Arabian Gulf, northwesterly winds are active, reaching speeds of up to 52 km/h, with wave heights potentially exceeding 2.5 meters in the central and southern parts. This necessitates caution for seafarers and fishermen.
