When will the cold wave end in Saudi Arabia and the affected areas?
Saudi Arabia is bracing for a strong cold front, characterized by a significant and sharp drop in temperatures. Its effects began to be felt today, Wednesday, and are expected to last for four consecutive days, ending by next Saturday. These weather fluctuations are typical of winter in the region, as polar air masses from the north become active.
Map of areas affected by the polar wave
According to initial indicators and weather reports, the cold wave will affect eight major regions in the Kingdom. The direct impact of the air mass will begin in the northern regions, then gradually extend to include the capital, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province. Authorities have issued warnings urging caution, given forecasts indicating temperatures will drop below freezing in some northern areas, requiring special preparations from residents.
The strongest effects of the cold wave will be felt starting mid-week in the regions of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, and Hail, as well as the northern parts of the Madinah region. Weather forecasts indicate that these areas will experience minimum temperatures ranging from 3 degrees Celsius to as low as -1 degree Celsius, creating conditions conducive to frost formation during the early morning hours, which could affect crops and traffic on highways.
Wave path and its impact on the weekend
The impact of this cold wave is not limited to the north; its temporal and geographical scope extends to wider areas on Friday and Saturday, moving rapidly towards the central and eastern regions of the Kingdom. The Qassim region, and the northern parts of the Riyadh and Eastern regions, will experience the direct effects of this cold air mass during the weekend.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
This cold wave is particularly significant due to its timing and impact on daily activities. Climatically, the Kingdom is typically affected at this time of year by the expansion of the Siberian high-pressure system, which pushes cold, dry northerly winds, resulting in this sharp drop in temperature. This weather pattern is common in the Arabian Peninsula during winter, but it always requires adjustments to daily life.
On a social and health level, these distinctly winter conditions necessitate adherence to safety guidelines, particularly regarding the use of traditional (such as coal and firewood) or electric heating methods indoors, to prevent suffocation or fires. Weather experts also advise those venturing into the wilderness and those planning weekend outings to prepare heavy winter clothing and appropriate heating equipment, given the expected extreme cold in open areas at night.
