Sunday's weather forecast in Saudi Arabia: Thunderstorms and zero visibility

The National Center for Meteorology, in its detailed weather report for Sunday in Saudi Arabia, predicted moderate to heavy thunderstorms. The report indicated that these conditions could lead to flash floods in valleys and ravines, accompanied by hail and strong winds. This forecast is part of the ongoing monitoring of weather fluctuations experienced in the Kingdom during this time of year.

The center indicated that these weather changes will affect large parts of the Kingdom, with the Eastern Province, the Northern Borders, Qassim, Hail, Tabuk, Madinah, Riyadh, Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan all expected to be impacted. In a related context, the effects of active winds stirring up dust and sand will continue, potentially leading to near-zero horizontal visibility in parts of these regions, as well as parts of Al-Jawf and Najran.

Climate fluctuations and their impact on Sunday's weather

The Arabian Peninsula, and Saudi Arabia in particular, is characterized by a climate marked by rapid changes during the transitional periods between seasons. Historically, the Kingdom experiences periods of atmospheric instability during these times, as warm, humid air masses from the Arabian Sea meet dynamic low-pressure systems, resulting in the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and thunderstorms. Sunday's weather forecast reflects this typical climatic pattern, which significantly contributes to groundwater replenishment and vegetation renewal in desert and mountainous regions, an essential part of the region's natural climate cycle.

Expected consequences of the weather conditions and safety guidelines

These weather changes are of great importance and have tangible effects on several levels. Locally, heavy rainfall and flash floods directly impact transportation and traffic, requiring relevant authorities to raise their level of preparedness and readiness to deal with any emergencies that may occur in infrastructure. Dust-laden winds also affect public health, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Regionally, the movement of low-pressure systems and dust storms may extend to neighboring countries, necessitating continuous coordination among meteorological centers in the Gulf countries. The General Directorate of Civil Defense consistently emphasizes the need to exercise caution, stay away from valleys and flood channels, and adhere to instructions to ensure everyone's safety.

Maritime navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf

The weather report did not neglect to detail the condition of ports and maritime navigation, as this information is of great importance to fishermen and the movement of commercial ships.

Red Sea

• Surface winds: Westerly to northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 31 km/h over the northern and central parts, while southeasterly to southerly winds will blow at speeds of 21 to 42 km/h over the southern part.
• Wave height: ranging from half a meter to one and a half meters on the northern and central parts, and from one meter to two meters on the southern part.
• Sea conditions: The waves will be light to moderate.

Arabian Gulf

• Surface winds: Southeasterly to southwesterly at speeds ranging from 13 to 26 km/h.
• Wave height: ranging from half a meter to one meter.
• Sea conditions: It is characterized by having light waves, making it relatively stable for normal marine activities.