Locations and times of fog formation in 3 Saudi regions | Today's weather

The National Center for Meteorology announced details of today's weather, warning of fog across large parts of three major regions in Saudi Arabia. These warnings are issued as part of the authorities' commitment to the safety of citizens and residents during the early morning hours, when horizontal visibility is significantly reduced by this weather phenomenon.

The report issued by the center explained that the weather phenomenon will begin at 1:00 AM and continue until 8:00 AM on Monday. The fog formation will be accompanied by a decrease in horizontal visibility ranging from 3 to 5 kilometers in some areas, while visibility will reach near zero, ranging from 1 to 3 kilometers in other locations, necessitating extreme caution while driving.

Areas covered by fog formation alerts

The National Center of Meteorology identified the geographical area that will experience this weather condition, and the warnings included the following areas:

• The Eastern Province: includes the cities and governorates of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Khafji, and Nairyah.
• Al-Jawf region: Dumat Al-Jandal, Sakaka, Al-Qurayyat and Tabarjal are affected.
• Northern Border Region: Includes Tarif, Al-Uwaiqilah, and Arar.

These areas are considered among the most vulnerable to rapid climate changes during these times of the year.

The climatic context of the fog phenomenon in the Kingdom

Dense fog is a common weather phenomenon in Saudi Arabia during the transitional periods between seasons, particularly towards the beginning or end of winter. Historically, coastal areas like the Eastern Province and northern regions like Al-Jawf and the Northern Borders have experienced higher rates of fog formation due to the convergence of warm, moist air masses from bodies of water with cold air masses. This temperature contrast, combined with calm surface winds, creates ideal conditions for water vapor to condense near the Earth's surface, leading to a sharp decrease in visibility.

Expected effects of fog on public movement and traffic

This weather event is of great importance and has a direct impact on daily life, both locally and regionally. Locally, the dense fog significantly affects traffic on highways connecting cities and provinces, increasing the likelihood of traffic accidents if speed limits are not observed and fog lights are not used. The impact also extends to the logistics sector and the movement of trucks transporting goods between vital areas such as the Eastern Province and the rest of the Kingdom.

Regionally, reduced horizontal visibility can sometimes affect flight schedules at local and regional airports within the affected area, as well as maritime navigation in Arabian Gulf ports. Therefore, the General Directorate of Traffic and security authorities consistently emphasize the importance of monitoring updated weather forecasts and avoiding unnecessary road travel during peak fog hours to ensure everyone's safety.