The National Center for Meteorology, in its daily weather report for the Kingdom , revealed a significant and noticeable temperature variation across different regions, reflecting the country's considerable geographical and climatic diversity. The center warned of severe weather fluctuations that could affect daily life in several areas in the coming hours, ranging from strong, dust-raising winds to the formation of dense fog.
Details of thermal variation in temperatures
In a scene reflecting the vast geographical expanse of the Kingdom, weather observatories recorded a significant temperature difference of up to 27 degrees Celsius between the highest and lowest points. While the southern coastal regions enjoy warm, even hot, weather—with Jazan recording the highest temperature at 31 degrees Celsius, followed by Mecca and Sharurah at 30 degrees—the northern regions and highlands are experiencing harsh winter conditions.
of Al-Soudah recorded the lowest minimum temperatures, dropping to 4 degrees Celsius, followed by Tabuk at 5 degrees, and then Tarif at 6 degrees, which calls on the residents of those areas to wear heavy winter clothes and be careful of colds.
The geographical and climatic context of the Kingdom
This significant temperature variation is a natural phenomenon at this time of year, given the topography of Saudi Arabia. While the northern regions and highlands are affected by cold air masses from the north, the southern coastal areas remain warm thanks to their geographical location, lower elevation, and the influence of warm Red Sea currents. This climatic diversity gives the Kingdom a unique advantage, allowing visitors to experience all four seasons simultaneously by traveling between its different regions.
Weather phenomena and warnings
Weather maps indicate strong winds, potentially reaching storm force, in parts of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and the Northern Borders regions. These winds will stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility, requiring extreme caution from drivers on highways and open roads.
The forecast also did not rule out scattered light rain in the same areas, which could help to cool the air and settle the suspended dust. Conversely, there is a chance of dense fog forming during the night and early morning hours over the highlands and parts of the Madinah, Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan regions, which could significantly disrupt traffic.
Red Sea situation
Regarding the maritime situation, the Red Sea is experiencing varying wind movements; northerly to northwesterly in its northern and central parts, and southerly in its southern part, with speeds reaching 42 km/h, with wave heights ranging from light to moderate, which requires the attention of fishermen and sea users in those areas.
