Cold wave in Tarif: Meteorology warns of temperatures as low as -3 degrees Celsius
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced warning on Friday regarding a severe cold wave expected to affect the Tarf province in the Northern Borders region. According to the warning, the area is expected to experience a sharp and significant drop in temperatures, ranging between zero degrees Celsius and three degrees below zero.
The center explained in its statement that this weather condition will begin to affect the early hours of Saturday morning, specifically at 2:00 AM, and is expected to continue until 8:00 AM on the same day, calling on residents to take precautions.
Tarif and the Northern Borders: A History of Harsh Winters
The Northern Borders region, and specifically the city of Tarif, is known for its continental desert climate, characterized by bitterly cold winters and hot summers. Tarif is historically considered one of the coldest cities in Saudi Arabia, having previously recorded record low temperatures for the Kingdom and the Middle East. These harsh climatic conditions are not unfamiliar to the region's inhabitants, who are accustomed to facing waves of frost and snow during the winter, often resulting from the incursion of polar air masses originating from Siberia and Northern Europe across the Levant.
Expected impacts and the importance of preparedness
This significant drop in temperatures has multiple impacts on various aspects of life in the region. On the health front, the risk of respiratory illnesses and colds increases, and health authorities advise residents, especially the elderly, children, and those with chronic conditions, to stay warm and wear warm clothing as a precaution.
On the agricultural front, frost poses a direct threat to crops, requiring farmers to take preventative measures to protect their produce. Increased demand for heating is also expected, potentially straining the electricity grid. Authorities advise drivers to exercise extreme caution while driving in the early morning hours, as icy roads may form and cause skidding.
Staying up-to-date and adhering to instructions
The National Center of Meteorology continues its close monitoring of the weather situation and issues regular updates and reports through its official channels. The center emphasizes the importance of following these updates and adhering to instructions issued by relevant authorities, such as Civil Defense, to ensure everyone's safety and avoid any accidents that may result from this cold wave.
