The National Center for Meteorology issues advanced warnings
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued a series of advanced weather alerts today covering various regions of the Kingdom, most notably Al-Baha and Najran. The center warned of unstable weather conditions, including thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds in Al-Baha, and dust storms that will reduce horizontal visibility in Najran. These conditions are expected to continue until 6:00 PM today.
Thunderstorms and strong winds in Al-Baha
In its detailed warning for the Al-Baha region, the center explained that the area will experience varying intensities of rainfall, sometimes accompanied by thunderstorms, along with strong winds that may reach speeds causing dust storms. The accompanying effects include reduced horizontal visibility, the possibility of flash floods in valleys and ravines, and lightning strikes. The warning covers the city of Al-Baha itself and several of its governorates: Al-Aqiq, Baljurashi, Al-Qura, Bani Hassan, Al-Mandaq, and surrounding areas.
Dust storms and reduced visibility in Najran
In the Najran region, the center warned of blowing dust caused by active winds, which will lead to a significant decrease in horizontal visibility, potentially dropping to between 3 and 5 kilometers in some open areas and highways. The center urged residents of Najran city and the governorates of Badr Al-Janoub, Habuna, Khubash, Yadma, and Thar to take precautions, especially those with respiratory conditions and the elderly, and to be especially careful while driving.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These weather fluctuations are part of the Kingdom's typical climatic patterns during seasonal transitions. Mountainous regions and the southwestern highlands, such as Al-Baha, are affected by cumulonimbus cloud formations that bring rainfall, while desert areas like Najran experience surface wind activity that stirs up dust and sand. The National Center of Meteorology plays a pivotal role in the Kingdom's disaster risk management system, as its early warnings enable relevant authorities, such as Civil Defense and Highway Patrol, to take the necessary precautions to protect lives and property.
Expected effects and calls for caution
These weather phenomena have direct impacts on public safety and daily life. Heavy rains in Al-Baha increase the risk of landslides on mountain roads and flash floods. Dust storms in Najran, in addition to affecting land and air transport, pose a risk to public health, potentially causing respiratory problems. Saudi authorities consistently emphasize the importance of following updates issued by the National Center for Meteorology and adhering to safety instructions issued by the General Directorate of Civil Defense to ensure everyone's safety.
