Hassan Karani's death: The passing of a meteorology icon on Saudi television
Hassan Karani a veteran weather expert and presenter on Saudi television, passed away, bringing to a close an exceptional career spanning decades, during which he etched his name in the memories of Saudi and Gulf viewers. The media community and citizens alike mourned his loss with heartfelt words, recalling a beautiful era when Karani was a daily fixture in every home.
A pioneering career and scientific foundation
Hassan Karani was more than just a weather forecaster; he was one of the first specialists in this field in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The late Karani belonged to a generation of pioneers sent by the government to study meteorology in the United States, graduating from Saint Louis University. He returned with academic expertise that he dedicated to serving his country. He joined the Meteorology and Environmental Protection Agency (now the National Center for Meteorology), where he played a pivotal role in establishing and developing the mechanism for disseminating climate information to the public.
Saudi TV icon and golden generation
Hassan Karani's name is synonymous with what is known as the "golden generation" of Saudi television. In the pre-internet era and before smart weather apps, Karani's weather forecast was the primary and most reliable source of information for citizens and residents alike. His style was characterized by calmness and composure, and a remarkable ability to simplify complex scientific terminology and explain weather maps—which had evolved from paper and magnetic to digital—in a clear and accessible way for everyone, from specialists to the general public.
"Thank you for listening"... a phrase etched in memory
Perhaps what will remain most etched in the minds of millions is his famous catchphrase with which he concluded his weather forecasts: “Thank you for listening… Best wishes .” This phrase was not merely a routine closing; over the years, it transformed into a signature sound and an iconic phrase that evokes feelings of nostalgia for the 1980s and 90s. Krane succeeded in creating a friendly relationship with viewers on screen, earning him widespread love and respect that transcended the boundaries of his professional work.
An unforgettable legacy in media and meteorology
The late Hassan Karani played a pivotal role in training and developing a new generation of weather forecasters, sharing his extensive experience and the secrets of the profession. He is credited with humanizing dry information, transforming the monitoring of cloud movements and weather systems into a daily family ritual. With his passing, the Saudi media landscape loses a towering figure, a symbol of dedication and professionalism, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and a fragrant memory that will be recounted for generations to come.
