Warnings of heavy fog in 8 regions of Saudi Arabia

The National Center for Meteorology issued a detailed report warning of dense fog formation in Saudi Arabia, where large parts of eight regions are experiencing varying intensities of weather conditions. The report indicated that this weather pattern will begin in the early morning hours and continue until 8:00 AM on Tuesday, urging citizens and residents, especially those traveling on highways, to exercise caution.

Details of the heavy fog situation in Saudi Arabia and the affected areas

According to a report issued by the National Center for Meteorology, the dense fog in Saudi Arabia is accompanied by near-zero horizontal visibility, ranging from one to three kilometers in some areas, and potentially reaching zero (one kilometer or less) in locations experiencing extremely dense fog. The areas affected by this weather condition include:

• Eastern Province: Jubail, Khobar, Khafji, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, and Ras Tanura.
• Riyadh Region: Al-Aflaj, As-Sulayyil, Wadi Ad-Dawasir, Ad-Dawadmi, Ar-Rayn, Al-Quway'iyah, Afif, Ad-Diriyah, Riyadh (the capital), Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dhurma, Marat, Al-Hariq, Al-Kharj, Ad-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiyah, and Hawtat Bani Tamim.
• Makkah Region: Adham, Maysan, Taif, Al-Khurmah, Al-Muwayh, Turbah, Ranyah, Al-Qunfudhah, Al-Muzaylif, and Al-Ardiyat.
• Madinah region: Al-Rais and Yanbu.
• Jazan region: Al-Harth, Al-Dayer, Al-Raith, Al-Ardah, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, Haroub, Al-Darb, Bish, Jazan, and Farasan.
• Asir region: Abha, Ahad Rafidah, Khamis Mushait, Al-Harjah, Al-Rabou’ah, Al-Farsha, Sarat Abidah, Dhahran Al-Janoub, Al-Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, Al-Amwah, Al-Arin, Bisha, Tathlith, Tarib, Al-Barak, Al-Qahmah, Al-Majardah, Bariq, Rijal Alma’, and Mahayil.
• Al-Baha region: Al-Aqiq, Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Al-Baha, Baljurashi, Bani Hassan, Al-Hajrah, Al-Makhwah, Far’ah Ghamid Al-Zanad, and Qalwah.
• Najran region: Badr Al Janoub, Thar, Habuna, Khubash, Najran, and Yadma.

Climatic context: The phenomenon of fog and its history in the Kingdom

Fog is a recurring and well-known weather phenomenon in the climate record of Saudi Arabia, particularly during the winter and spring seasons. Historically, this phenomenon is associated with lower surface temperatures and higher relative humidity, especially in the southwestern mountainous regions such as Asir and Al-Baha, as well as the coastal areas of the Eastern Province and Jazan. This condition typically forms as a result of radiative cooling at night, where the ground loses heat rapidly, leading to the condensation of water vapor near the surface. The National Center of Meteorology and Environmental Protection regularly monitors these climatic changes and issues early warnings to mitigate any potential risks, reflecting the significant advancements in the Kingdom's meteorological monitoring system.

Expected effects of weather conditions on daily life

The formation of dense fog has tangible effects on several levels, both locally and regionally. Locally, the significant decrease in horizontal visibility directly impacts traffic flow in major cities and on highways connecting provinces, increasing the likelihood of traffic accidents if safety instructions are not followed. Regionally and economically, the lack of visibility may lead to the scheduling or delay of some flights at local airports, in addition to affecting maritime traffic in vital ports in the Eastern Province and Jazan. This necessitates close coordination among relevant authorities to ensure the continuity of supply chains and the safety of travelers.

Traffic safety guidelines during low visibility

Due to the current weather conditions, security and traffic authorities consistently emphasize the importance of adhering to strict safety guidelines. Drivers are advised to gradually reduce their speed, use fog lights, and avoid high beams, which can reflect off water droplets and further reduce visibility. Maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding sudden overtaking, and staying in the right lane whenever possible are also recommended to ensure everyone reaches their destinations safely.