Eastern Province weather: Dense fog and weather warnings issued for several cities
The National Center of Meteorology issued an important weather alert for the Eastern Province, indicating the formation of fog of varying intensity that will affect horizontal visibility in several governorates and cities during the early morning hours of Friday. This alert comes as part of the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions to ensure the safety of residents and road users.
Weather details and affected areas
The weather report indicated that the weather conditions would persist until 9:00 AM, affecting the cities of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, Abqaiq, Hafr Al-Batin, Khafji, Nairyah, and Qaryat Al-Ulya . The effects of these conditions range from reduced horizontal visibility of 3-5 kilometers in some areas to near-zero visibility of 1-3 kilometers in others, necessitating caution.
The importance of early warning and the role of the National Center for Meteorology
These alerts are of paramount importance in preserving lives and property. The National Center for Meteorology relies on the latest weather monitoring technologies, including satellite imagery and advanced weather radars, to provide accurate and immediate information. The automated early warning system is a cornerstone for government and service agencies in the Kingdom, enabling them to manage traffic and prepare for any emergencies that may arise from weather fluctuations. This reflects the significant development of the meteorological infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
Geographical and climatic factors of the Eastern Province
The Eastern Province, due to its location along the Arabian Gulf coast, is among the areas most prone to dense fog formation, especially during seasonal transitions and in winter. This occurs as a result of high relative humidity levels coming from the sea, coinciding with low minimum temperatures during the night and early morning hours. This leads to the condensation of water vapor and the formation of fog, which can cover wide areas and extend into the interior.
Traffic safety recommendations and weather impact
Given the direct impact of fog on traffic, especially on highways connecting Eastern Province cities or those leading to Riyadh and neighboring Gulf countries, authorities consistently emphasize the importance of following traffic safety guidelines in such conditions. Key among these guidelines are using vehicle fog lights, avoiding high beams which impair visibility, maintaining a safe following distance, and reducing speed according to road conditions. The Meteorology Department urges everyone to stay updated on weather forecasts through official channels to ensure safe travel planning.
