Today's weather: Temperature drop, frost, and dust in Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather for Tuesday across Saudi Arabia, highlighting significant weather changes that warrant attention. The report included forecasts of a noticeable drop in temperatures, accompanied by increased surface wind activity and fog formation, indicating the Kingdom's entry into a deeper phase of winter weather.
Climate context and weather fluctuations
These weather changes are part of the natural climatic characteristics of winter in the Kingdom, as the northern and central regions are typically affected by cold air masses coming from the north, leading to significant temperature fluctuations. Monitoring this situation is particularly important given its direct impact on daily life, from traffic on highways, which may be affected by reduced visibility, to the necessary health precautions to prevent colds resulting from the sudden drop in temperature.
Weather details in the northern and central regions
The weather report indicated that the drop in temperatures will affect large parts of the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, Hail, and Northern Borders regions, extending to the northern parts of the Qassim and Eastern regions. The center warned of the possibility of frost during the early morning hours, a phenomenon common in open desert areas at this time of year, necessitating the protection of crops and appropriate heating measures for residents.
Rain and fog in the southern highlands
In contrast, the southern regions are experiencing a different pattern, with partly to mostly cloudy skies and a chance of light rain. This forecast includes parts of the Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha regions. The center also warned of fog formation in these areas, which may reduce visibility in mountainous and hilly regions, requiring extra caution from drivers.
The state of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, the report indicated rough sea conditions in the Red Sea, with northwesterly to northerly surface winds reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h in the northern and central parts, while wind speeds reach 45 km/h towards the Gulf of Aqaba and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, with wave heights potentially reaching two meters. In the Arabian Gulf, sea conditions ranged from slight to moderate, with relatively active northwesterly winds in the northern part.
Special alerts for the Eastern Province
In a related development, the center issued a special alert for the Eastern Province regarding surface wind activity causing dust storms. The alert covers the governorates of Khafji, Nairyah, Qaryat Al-Ulya, and Hafr Al-Batin. This phenomenon will begin at noon and continue until 6:00 PM, reducing horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers. These warnings are essential for travelers on the highways connecting these governorates to ensure their safety.
