The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather forecast for Sunday, indicating a series of weather fluctuations expected across most regions of the Kingdom. The report warned of a noticeable drop in temperatures, strong surface winds that will stir up dust and sand, and a chance of fog in 12 regions, urging caution.
Details of the expected weather conditions
According to the center's statement, the various weather effects will continue throughout the day. The following is a breakdown of the most prominent expected phenomena and the areas affected:
Active winds and dust storms
The effects of strong winds, which may stir up dust and sand, continue, leading to reduced horizontal visibility. This phenomenon includes the Eastern Province, Riyadh, and Qassim. Its effects also extend to parts of the Madinah and Makkah regions, particularly on highways and in open areas.
Lower temperatures
A noticeable drop in temperatures is expected in the northern regions of the Kingdom, affecting Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, and Hail, as well as parts of the Tabuk region. Residents in these areas are advised to wear appropriate winter clothing, especially during the night and early morning hours.
Fog
The center does not rule out the formation of fog during the late night and early morning hours in parts of the Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha regions. Fog directly affects visibility, increasing the danger of driving on mountain and coastal roads in those areas.
Climate context and the importance of weather monitoring
These weather fluctuations are occurring during the transitional period the Kingdom is experiencing as winter approaches. At this time of year, the Arabian Peninsula is affected by the passage of various air masses, including cold air masses from the north that cause a drop in temperatures, coinciding with the activity of the Red Sea trough, which contributes to increased wind speeds. The National Center of Meteorology plays a vital role in monitoring these changes and issuing early warnings, helping all sectors and individuals prepare and adapt to the weather conditions to ensure public safety.
Expected effects on daily life
This weather system is expected to have direct impacts on various aspects of life. In terms of health, asthma and respiratory patients are advised to avoid direct exposure to dust and sand. Regarding road safety, strong winds, fog, and reduced visibility necessitate cautious driving and reduced speed. Air and sea traffic may also be affected in some areas, requiring continuous monitoring of reports issued by the relevant authorities to take necessary precautions.
The situation in the Red and Arabian Seas
Red Sea
- Surface winds: Northwesterly to northerly at a speed of 16-36 km/h on the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southerly at a speed of 14-32 km/h on the southern part, with speeds reaching up to 45 km/h towards the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
- Wave height: from half a meter to one and a half meters, reaching two meters towards the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
- Sea state: Light to moderate waves.
Arabian Gulf
- Surface winds: Southeasterly to northeasterly, turning northwesterly at 15-45 km/h in the afternoon over the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southerly, turning southwesterly then westerly at 10-40 km/h in the evening over the southern part.
- Wave height: from one to two meters on the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to one and a half meters on the southern part.
- Sea state: Moderate waves in the northern and central parts, and light to moderate waves in the southern part.
