The province of Tarif, which belongs to the Northern Borders region in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, recorded today a sharp drop in temperatures, reaching one degree Celsius below zero, thus topping the list of Saudi cities and provinces as the coldest areas for today, according to official data issued by the National Center for Meteorology.
Weather report details
The National Center of Meteorology explained in its daily report that the region is experiencing the effects of a cold air mass, leading to this noticeable drop in temperatures. The report indicated that this weather condition is not limited to the temperature decrease, but is also accompanied by strong surface winds and the formation of frost during the early morning hours, necessitating caution from residents and highway users.
Why is Tarif considered Saudi Arabia's "refrigerator"?
The province of Tarif is renowned for being one of the coldest regions in the Arabian Peninsula during winter. This is due to several geographical and climatic factors, most notably its high altitude and its location in the far north, which places it in direct contact with cold air masses originating from the Levant or those pushing in from Siberia via Iraq. Historically, Tarif has recorded record low temperatures, reaching below -5 degrees Celsius in previous years, making -1 degrees Celsius a common occurrence, though one that requires special preparation.
The impact of the cold wave and safety measures
These cold conditions are impacting daily life in the Northern Borders region, leading to increased demand for heating appliances and heavy winter clothing. In this context, relevant authorities, such as the Civil Defense and the Ministry of Health, are emphasizing the importance of following public safety guidelines. These guidelines include ensuring the safety of water heaters, proper ventilation when using coal or kerosene heaters to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and driving cautiously due to the possibility of fog or frost, which can reduce visibility and tire grip.
Climate forecast for the region
The effects of this cold wave are expected to persist for several days, as weather maps indicate the continued flow of cold air currents towards the north of the Kingdom. This climatic variation is a characteristic feature of Saudi Arabia's geography, with northern regions experiencing harsh winter conditions while other areas, such as the western coast, may enjoy mild and warm weather at the same time, reflecting the country's significant environmental and climatic diversity.
