The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia announced the imminent end of winter, which was characterized by warmer-than-usual weather in most regions, prompting many to wonder when spring will officially arrive. According to the center's spokesperson, the remaining days of winter are numbered, with the season expected to end in approximately 12 days.
The center explained that the main reason for this warm winter is the concentration of cold air masses primarily over the northern and central regions of the Kingdom, while the western and eastern coastal areas were not affected to the same extent as usual, resulting in a general feeling of higher temperatures compared to previous seasons. This unusual weather pattern has led to significant variations in winter experiences across the Kingdom's different cities.
The climatic context of the Saudi winter
Historically, winter in Saudi Arabia has been characterized by sharp climatic variations across its regions. While northern areas such as Tabuk, Arar, and Al-Jawf experience very low temperatures, sometimes dropping below freezing with occasional snowfall, coastal areas on the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, such as Jeddah and Dammam, enjoy milder, warmer winters. The central region, including the capital, Riyadh, experiences cold, dry winters. The Kingdom's winter climate is significantly influenced by the Siberian High, which pushes cold, dry air masses toward the Arabian Peninsula, thus determining the intensity and duration of the cold spells.
The importance and effects of a warm winter end
The end of winter, especially after a warm season, has multiple impacts on both local and regional levels. Locally, the arrival of spring heralds a change in daily life, with increased outdoor activities and trips to the countryside. It also directly affects the agricultural sector, as farmers prepare for a new season of crops suited to the milder temperatures. On the other hand, this unusual warmth raises concerns about climate change. The higher winter temperatures may be indicative of a broader global warming trend, which could have long-term effects on the Kingdom's water resources, exacerbate desertification challenges, and impact biodiversity. These phenomena align with global warnings about the need to address climate change and underscore the importance of environmental initiatives adopted by the Kingdom within Vision 2030, such as the "Green Saudi Arabia" and "Green Middle East" initiatives.
With the noticeable gradual rise in temperatures currently, the Kingdom is preparing to welcome the spring season, which represents a transitional period towards the long and hot summer season, requiring special preparations at the level of individuals and different sectors.
