Saudi Arabia weather: Dust in Riyadh and rain in the Eastern Province – details of the warnings

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather . These warnings coincide with the usual weather fluctuations during the transitional periods between seasons, when the Kingdom experiences increased surface wind activity and the formation of cumulonimbus clouds.

Riyadh weather details: Dust and reduced visibility

The weather report indicated that parts of the Riyadh region will experience intense dust storms and sandstorms, with effects expected to continue until 11:00 PM this Thursday. This warning includes the governorates of Al-Aflaj, As-Sulayyil, and Wadi Ad-Dawasir . This weather condition is expected to cause near-zero horizontal visibility, dropping to one kilometer or less, necessitating extreme caution for those using highways and open roads.

In a related context, the weather effects extend to include the governorates of Al-Hariq, Al-Kharj, Al-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiya, and Hawtat Bani Tamim, where surface winds are active, which may reach speeds of between 40 and 49 kilometers per hour, stirring up dust and sand. This condition will continue until 1:00 AM on Friday.

Heavy rains and floods in the Eastern Province

On the other side of the Kingdom, the National Center for Meteorology warned of heavy rainfall in parts of the Eastern Province, including Khafji, Nairyah, and Qaryat Al-Ulya. This rainy weather is expected to continue until 10 PM on Thursday and will be accompanied by several weather phenomena, including:

• High-speed winds.
• Hailstones fell.
• Flash floods in valleys and ravines.
• Thunderstorms and zero visibility.

Climate context and the importance of warnings

These warnings are particularly important given the geographical nature of Saudi Arabia, where the central and eastern regions are affected by thermal low-pressure systems that contribute to dust storms and scattered rainfall. These phenomena are part of the region's climatic pattern, but their intensity can vary, directly impacting land navigation and daily activities.

The relevant authorities, including the Civil Defense, are calling on citizens and residents to adhere to safety instructions during these weather conditions, especially those with respiratory illnesses who may be affected by dust storms, in addition to the need to stay away from flood channels and water pools in areas experiencing heavy rainfall to ensure the safety of lives and property.