Saudi Arabia weather: Rafha records two degrees below zero and dust warnings issued
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia announced the latest weather updates, reporting a significant drop in temperatures in Rafha Governorate, reaching as low as -2 degrees Celsius. This is a clear indication of the deepening cold air mass affecting the northern regions of the Kingdom. This temperature decrease coincides with strong surface winds stirring up dust and sand, leading to reduced horizontal visibility in several areas. Drivers on highways and open roads are advised to exercise caution.
climatic context and the impact of cold air masses
The northern regions of Saudi Arabia, particularly the Northern Borders region encompassing Rafha, Tarif, and Arar, are the primary gateway for cold waves originating from higher latitudes. Historically, these areas experience sharp drops in temperature during winter, often falling below freezing, due to the influence of Siberian high-pressure systems that push dry, extremely cold air masses towards the Arabian Peninsula. This climatic pattern is typical for this time of year, with increased chances of frost formation during the early morning hours and occasional light snowfall in the higher elevations.
The importance of warnings and public safety measures
This report is of particular importance given its direct impact on the daily lives of citizens and residents. From a health perspective, the sharp drop in temperatures necessitates wearing heavy winter clothing, especially for children and the elderly, to avoid colds and seasonal illnesses. Regarding road safety, the strong winds accompanied by dust pose a real danger on highways connecting the governorates, as visibility suddenly decreases, requiring drivers to adhere to speed limits and maintain safe following distances.
Recommendations of the relevant authorities
In a related context, weather reports typically coincide with warnings from the Saudi Civil Defense, which consistently emphasizes during these cold spells the importance of adhering to safety guidelines when using various heating appliances, whether coal or electric heaters, to avoid suffocation or fires, which unfortunately become more frequent during periods of extreme cold. Following official weather forecasts through approved channels remains the best way to ensure everyone's safety and to plan daily activities according to prevailing weather conditions.
