Friday's weather forecast for Saudi Arabia: Winds and thunderstorms
The National Center for Meteorology has released details of Friday's weather in Saudi Arabia, warning citizens and residents of significant weather fluctuations, including active winds stirring up dust and sand, as well as the formation of thunderstorms and rain in several regions. These forecasts are part of the center's regular monitoring to ensure everyone's safety and provide accurate information about the weather conditions the Kingdom experiences during this time of year.
The effects of Friday's weather in Saudi Arabia on horizontal visibility
The meteorological statement explained that active surface winds will stir up dust and sand, causing near-zero horizontal visibility in the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders regions, as well as parts of the Hail and Madinah regions, particularly their northern areas. Historically, the northern and northwestern regions of the Kingdom have been a corridor for active air currents due to their open geography, making them susceptible to seasonal dust storms. This change in Friday's weather in Saudi Arabia requires drivers on highways connecting these cities to exercise extreme caution to avoid traffic accidents caused by reduced visibility. Those with respiratory conditions are also advised to remain indoors as much as possible.
Thunderstorms and rain over the southwestern highlands
Conversely, the chance of thunderstorms and rain remains high over parts of the highlands of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah. The Sarawat Mountains in these regions are characterized by their topography, which plays a vital role in blocking moist winds coming from the Red Sea, leading to cloud formation and frequent thunderstorms. These rains are of great importance and have a significant positive impact locally, contributing to replenishing groundwater reservoirs, supporting vegetation cover, and boosting the agricultural sector upon which many southern provinces depend, in addition to moderating the climate and attracting domestic tourism.
Navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the sea conditions, the center detailed its forecast for wind and wave movement. In the Red Sea, surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds ranging from 15 to 40 km/h in the northern and central parts, reaching up to 45 km/h towards the Gulf of Aqaba. In the southern part, winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 10-30 km/h. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one and a half meters, potentially reaching two meters towards the Gulf of Aqaba, resulting in a slight to moderate sea state.
Along the Arabian Gulf coast, northerly to northwesterly winds are active in the northern and central parts, and northwesterly to southwesterly winds in the southern part, with speeds of 12-35 km/h, reaching up to 48 km/h in the central and southern parts. Wave heights there range from half a meter to two and a half meters, making the sea rough in some areas. These maritime warnings are of great international and regional importance, as the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf are among the most important shipping lanes in the world. Wind speed and wave height directly affect the movement of large merchant vessels, as well as local fishing boats, which must adhere to the instructions of the Coast Guard to ensure the safety of fishermen.
The importance of preparing for weather fluctuations
Staying informed about the latest weather updates is crucial for protecting lives and property. Authorities in Saudi Arabia are working in close coordination to address any emergencies that may arise from these weather fluctuations, reflecting the high level of preparedness of the country's infrastructure and crisis management capabilities to ensure the safe and smooth continuation of daily life.
