The National Center for Meteorology issued a detailed and comprehensive report on the expected weather conditions coinciding with the start of the mid-year school break for the year 1447 AH, as climate forecasts indicate that the Kingdom’s atmosphere will be exposed to a state of severe weather fluctuations that combine active winds, dust waves, and rainfall, which calls for caution and vigilance on the part of citizens and residents.
Wind activity and reduced horizontal visibility
Weather maps indicate that the Kingdom will experience significant surface wind activity, stirring up dust and sand, with intensity expected to peak particularly during daylight hours. This wind activity may lead to near-zero or significantly reduced horizontal visibility, especially in open areas and on highways connecting cities.
The report identified the areas most affected by these dust storms as large parts of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, Makkah, and Madinah. The effects also extend to the central and eastern regions, with dust expected to cover parts of Al-Qassim, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, potentially impacting land transportation.
Good tidings: Rain and noticeable cold
On the other hand, the National Center for Meteorology's report brought promising signs of rainfall towards the end of this week. There is a chance of varying intensities of rain in parts of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders region, and Hail, in addition to the Makkah and Madinah regions, heralding distinctive winter weather.
The weather forecast also warned of a noticeable drop in temperatures, with cold weather prevailing at night and in the early morning, especially in the northern regions of the Kingdom and the southwestern highlands (Asir, Al-Baha, and Jazan), which may witness the formation of dense fog and frost, which necessitates wearing appropriate winter clothing.
The importance of the report and its impact on travel
These warnings are of paramount importance given their timing with the start of the school holidays, a period that sees a surge in travel and domestic tourism across the Kingdom. The highways connecting Riyadh to the Eastern Province, as well as those leading to the western and northern regions, are vital arteries for road travelers.
In this context, travelers are advised to ensure their vehicles are in good working order and to check tires, windshield wipers, and lights, especially given the possibility of sudden sandstorms or rain that could make roads slippery. Relevant authorities, such as traffic police and civil defense, typically coordinate with the National Center of Meteorology to enhance preparedness in such conditions and ensure the safety of road users.
The role of the National Center for Meteorology
This report is part of the National Center of Meteorology's ongoing efforts to monitor and track weather phenomena using the latest technologies and satellites. Through its proactive bulletins, the Center aims to enhance public awareness and mitigate the risks associated with weather fluctuations. It urges everyone to follow daily reports closely through official platforms and wishes students and their families a happy and safe holiday.
