Dust storm in Riyadh: Weather warning and expected effects
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced warning regarding the expected weather conditions on Thursday, warning of a dust storm and active winds affecting large parts of the Riyadh region, causing an almost total decrease in horizontal visibility.
Alert details and affected areas
According to the center's report, the weather phenomenon will begin at 9:00 AM and continue into the evening, expected to end by 6:00 PM in some areas, while extending until 8:00 PM in others. The list of directly affected governorates and regions includes: As-Sulayyil, Wadi Ad-Dawasir, Ad-Dawadmi, Ar-Rayn, Al-Quway'iyah, and Afif. The center explained that the effects of this weather system include strong winds that may lead to near-zero horizontal visibility, ranging between 1 and 3 kilometers only.
The climatic context of dust storms in Saudi Arabia
Dust and sandstorms are a common weather phenomenon in Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula in general, due to its geographical nature, characterized by vast deserts such as the Rub' al Khali and the Great Nafud. These storms are most active during the transitional periods between seasons, especially in spring and summer, as a result of the passage of low-pressure systems that stir up strong surface winds capable of carrying enormous quantities of dust and sand over long distances.
Expected effects and safety guidelines
These weather phenomena have direct impacts on various aspects of daily life. On the health front, asthma, respiratory, and allergy sufferers are advised to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary, and to wear protective masks. Regarding road safety, relevant authorities, such as the General Directorate of Traffic and Civil Defense, have warned drivers to exercise caution and reduce speed on highways due to reduced visibility, and to stop completely in a safe location if visibility becomes zero. Air traffic at airports may also be affected, potentially leading to delays or rescheduling of some flights. Authorities have urged citizens and residents to follow weather updates issued by the National Center of Meteorology and to adhere to instructions to ensure their safety.
An overview of the Kingdom's weather
In general, the center expects dust-laden winds to continue affecting parts of other regions, including Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, Madinah, and Makkah, as well as the eastern parts of the Asir and Al-Baha regions. Light rain and fog formation are also possible in the southwestern highlands of the Kingdom.
