Saturday's weather in Saudi Arabia: Frost, fog, and dust in 11 regions

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia has revealed details of the expected weather conditions for today, Saturday , indicating significant weather fluctuations affecting large areas of the Kingdom. This report comes as part of the ongoing monitoring of the country's climate during the winter season, where cold air masses interact with humid currents to create various weather phenomena.

Climate context and the impact of cold waves

At this time of year, the Kingdom is typically exposed to cold air masses from the north, leading to a sharp drop in temperatures, particularly in the northern and northwestern regions. These areas are the first point of entry for polar air masses, explaining the expected frost and significantly lower temperatures compared to other parts of the Kingdom. These fluctuations reflect the great geographical and climatic diversity that characterizes Saudi Arabia, where weather conditions vary dramatically between the mountainous highlands, coastal areas, and open deserts.

Weather details for the regions

According to the weather forecast, the Kingdom is expected to experience a noticeable drop in temperatures today, accompanied by increased surface wind activity and fog formation. The center identified the affected areas as follows:

• The northern regions (Tabuk, Al-Jawf, Northern Borders): will witness a significant drop in temperatures, with a high probability of frost formation, especially in parts of the Tabuk highlands, which calls for caution and vigilance on the part of the residents and farmers.
• The Eastern Region and the Southern Highlands (Jazan, Asir): The opportunity remains for dense fog to form, which may lead to a decrease in horizontal visibility, especially in the early morning hours.
• Central and western regions (Medina, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh): These regions are affected by active winds that stir up dust and sand, which may reduce horizontal visibility and affect respiratory patients.

State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf

Regarding the maritime situation, the center provided the following details for navigation and fishing:

Red Sea

• Winds: Northwesterly to northerly (25-45 km/h) in the north and center, and southeasterly to easterly (12-32 km/h) in the south, reaching up to 50 km/h towards the Gulf of Aqaba and the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
• Wave height: It ranges between one and two and a half meters in the northern and central parts, and may exceed two meters towards Bab al-Mandab.
• Sea conditions: Moderate to rough in the north and center, and slight to moderate in the south.

Arabian Gulf

• Winds: Northerly to northwesterly (18-40 km/h) in the north and center, turning westerly in the south.
• Wave height: from one to two meters in the northern and central parts.

Public safety recommendations

Given these forecasts, drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution while driving in areas experiencing fog or dust, and to maintain a safe distance to avoid accidents. Residents of northern regions are also advised to wear warm winter clothing and ensure adequate heating to cope with potential frost.