Weather in Saudi Arabia: Thunderstorms and dust-raising winds
The National Center for Meteorology, in its daily report, revealed details of the weather conditions in Saudi Arabia on Thursday, predicting continued weather fluctuations across large parts of the Kingdom. These forecasts confirm the ongoing formation of thunderstorms and rain, along with significant surface wind activity that will stir up dust and sand, necessitating caution from citizens and residents.
Historically, the Arabian Peninsula experiences frequent weather fluctuations during these transitional periods of the year. These climatic changes are part of the region's natural pattern, as warm and cold air masses collide, leading to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and thunderstorms over the southwestern highlands, while dust-raising downdrafts are active in the central, northern, and eastern regions. This climatic diversity reflects the Kingdom's vast geographical expanse and its susceptibility to varying atmospheric pressure systems, requiring continuous monitoring.
Weather details in Saudi Arabia and its local effects
According to the report, the weather in Saudi Arabia includes continued thunderstorms and rain over parts of the highlands in the Jazan and Asir regions, which may lead to flash floods in some valleys and ravines. At the same time, active winds stirring up dust and sand will reduce horizontal visibility, with a chance of scattered light rain over parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, and Hail regions, extending to the Madinah region. This rainfall will play a vital role in supporting vegetation cover and groundwater reserves in these areas, positively impacting the local environment.
Maritime navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, a vital economic artery, the report indicated that surface winds over the Red Sea would be southerly to southeasterly at speeds ranging from 10 to 30 km/h, potentially reaching 45 km/h towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Wave heights would range from half a meter to one and a half meters, resulting in calm to moderate sea conditions.
In the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northerly to northwesterly at 15-30 km/h in the northern part, and northwesterly to westerly at 20-45 km/h in the central and southern parts. Wave height will range from half a meter to one and a half meters in the north, and from one to two meters in the central and southern parts, resulting in generally slight to moderate sea conditions.
Weather alerts: Active winds in the Eastern Province
In a related development, the National Center for Meteorology issued a special alert regarding surface wind activity in parts of the Eastern Province. This weather phenomenon will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 5:00 PM. The alert covers major cities and governorates such as Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, and Ras Tanura.
The effects of this weather system include a significant decrease in horizontal visibility, high waves along the coasts, and winds reaching speeds of 40 to 49 kilometers per hour. These early warnings are crucial for protecting lives and property, as they contribute to regulating land and sea traffic and preventing accidents caused by poor visibility. These efforts also reflect the commitment of the relevant authorities to providing a safe and stable environment, which enhances the quality of life and supports daily economic and social activities across the Kingdom.
