Weather in Saudi Arabia: Thunderstorms and strong winds expected today
The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather report for Tuesday, detailing the expected weather conditions in Saudi Arabia . The report warned of significant weather fluctuations, including thunderstorms of varying intensity and strong surface winds that will stir up dust and sand in several regions of the Kingdom. These forecasts are part of the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions to ensure the safety of citizens and residents and facilitate travel.
Climate context and weather developments in Saudi Arabia
The Arabian Peninsula, and Saudi Arabia in particular, is characterized by a dry desert climate punctuated by transitional periods between seasons, which often witness sharp weather fluctuations. Historically, these periods have been a season of active surface winds and the formation of thunderstorms and rain, especially over the southwestern and western highlands. This variation in Saudi weather to differences in atmospheric pressure and the convergence of different air masses, leading to the formation of sandstorms and rainfall that can sometimes be heavy. This is a common climatic pattern that recurs annually and requires early preparation by the relevant authorities.
Thunderstorm map and affected areas
The report indicated that the chance of moderate to heavy thunderstorms remains, which could lead to flash floods in valleys and ravines. This weather system, accompanied by hail, is concentrated over parts of the Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha regions, and its effects extend to the southern parts of the Makkah region. Meanwhile, light to moderate rain is expected in scattered areas of the Riyadh and Najran regions, which will help to moderate the weather.
Active winds and reduced horizontal visibility
Alongside the rainfall, strong winds stirring up dust and sand continue to affect large parts of the Kingdom. This includes the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, and Tabuk regions. The center warned that the dust density could lead to near-zero horizontal visibility in parts of the Madinah, Hail, Qassim, and Eastern Province regions, necessitating extreme caution while driving on highways.
The importance and expected effects of weather fluctuations in Saudi Arabia
These weather changes in Saudi Arabia far-reaching local and regional impacts. On the positive side, the heavy rainfall in the southwestern highlands contributes to replenishing groundwater reserves and supporting the agricultural sector, which relies heavily on rainwater and flash floods. On the other hand, sandstorms and reduced visibility pose significant challenges to road traffic and navigation, prompting the General Directorate of Civil Defense to issue continuous warnings urging people to avoid flood channels and stay away from open areas during storms. The dust also affects public health, particularly for those with respiratory conditions and asthma, making it essential to adhere to health guidelines and wear masks when going outside.
Maritime navigation situation: Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
Regarding the Red Sea, the report indicated that surface winds would be northwesterly to northerly at speeds ranging from 20 to 45 km/h in the northern and central parts, and from 10 to 30 km/h in the southern part. Wave heights would range from one to two meters in the north and central regions, and from half a meter to one and a half meters in the south, resulting in a slight to moderate sea state.
In the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northwesterly to southwesterly in the northern part, and northeasterly to northwesterly in the central and southern parts at a speed of 15-30 km/h, with wave heights from half a meter to one and a half meters, and a light to moderate sea state.
Advanced warnings regarding dust in the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology issued a special alert regarding dust storms affecting parts of the Eastern Province, beginning at 9:00 AM and continuing until 6:00 PM. This alert covers the governorates of Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, Abqaiq, Hafr Al-Batin, Al-Khafji, An-Nairiyah, and Qaryat Al-Ulya. The effects of this weather system include strong winds and reduced horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers, urging drivers and residents of these areas to take precautions to ensure their safety.
