Meteorology: Red alert and dust storms in Al-Jawf and the Northern Borders
The National Center for Meteorology issued a red alert on Monday, warning of unstable weather conditions directly affecting the Al-Jawf and Northern Borders . This warning comes as part of the center's ongoing monitoring of weather fluctuations to ensure the safety of citizens and residents.
Weather details and affected areas
The center explained in its report that the weather conditions include the governorates of Al-Qurayyat and Tabarjal in the Al-Jawf region, in addition to the governorate of Tarif in the Northern Borders region. These conditions are characterized by strong surface winds that stir up dust and sand, potentially developing into dust storms .
The center warned that these storms will cause an almost complete lack of horizontal visibility (less than 1 km), which calls for extreme caution, especially for those using highways and open roads that connect these governorates.
The implications of a "red alert" and the importance of the warning
The “Red Alert” is the highest level of alert in the National Center of Meteorology’s automated early warning system. This color indicates severe or unusual weather phenomena requiring immediate action and the utmost caution. This level of warning is typically associated with a high probability of disruption to daily life, including traffic and the safety of outdoor facilities.
The geographical and climatic context of the northern regions
The northern regions of Saudi Arabia, such as Al-Jawf and the Northern Borders, are characterized by their open geography, making them frequently susceptible to strong winds and sandstorms, especially during seasonal transitions. These regions also play a vital role as a climatic gateway to the Kingdom, often being affected by low-pressure systems originating from the Mediterranean Sea or North Africa, leading to sharp and rapid weather fluctuations.
Expected effects and safety guidelines
Due to the reduced or nonexistent visibility, weather and traffic safety experts advise drivers to avoid high speeds, use headlights and side lights, or pull over to the nearest safe area until visibility improves. Those with respiratory conditions and asthma are also advised to avoid direct exposure to dust and remain indoors as much as possible during the warning period.
Unstable weather and fog in other areas
In a related development concerning the unstable weather conditions, the center had earlier warned this morning of fog of varying intensity forming over parts of nine other regions in the Kingdom. The previous report indicated reduced horizontal visibility of between 3 and 5 kilometers, and near-zero visibility in some areas, confirming that the Kingdom is experiencing a general state of weather fluctuations that necessitates continuous monitoring of official bulletins.
