Saudi Arabia's weather today, Sunday: Rain, wind, dust, and sandstorms

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia revealed details of the expected weather conditions for today, Sunday, as the Kingdom's atmosphere is witnessing various weather fluctuations including rainfall, surface wind activity, and a decrease in horizontal visibility due to dust and sandstorms in several regions.

Climate context and seasonal variations

This weather pattern is part of the seasonal shifts occurring in the Arabian Peninsula. These periods are typically characterized by the overlapping of air masses and variations in atmospheric pressure, leading to instability. Given the Kingdom's significant geographical diversity, weather phenomena vary from region to region. While the northern areas are affected by dust-laden winds blowing across the deserts, the southern, western, and central highlands experience thunderstorms and rain. This is a common weather pattern that requires residents and travelers to exercise caution.

Weather details in the northern regions

The weather report indicated that northern regions, specifically parts of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and the Northern Borders, will be affected by active winds stirring up dust and sand. This weather condition may lead to near-zero horizontal visibility, requiring drivers on highways and open roads to exercise caution. The report also noted a chance of light rain in parts of these areas, which may help to moderate the weather and reduce the intensity of the dust later on.

Thunderstorms and fog across wide areas

Conversely, widespread thunderstorms with rain and active winds are expected to continue across parts of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, with the effects extending to parts of Riyadh and the Eastern Province. These storms may produce varying intensities of rainfall and be accompanied by strong downdrafts.

The center also warned of the possibility of fog formation during the night and early morning hours, which will reduce visibility in parts of the aforementioned regions, as well as parts of Hail, Qassim, and Madinah. Fog is a phenomenon that directly affects land navigation and requires reduced speeds and the use of hazard lights.

State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf

Regarding the maritime situation, the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf are experiencing significant disturbances:

• Red Sea: Northerly to northwesterly surface winds will prevail over the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southerly winds over the southern part, with speeds ranging from 15 to 42 km/h, potentially reaching 50 km/h with the formation of thunderstorms. Wave heights will range from slight to moderate, becoming rough in the southern part.
• The Arabian Gulf: Southeasterly to southerly winds will shift to northwesterly in the evening, with speeds exceeding 50 km/h during thunderstorms. The sea is expected to be moderate to rough, with wave heights potentially exceeding 2.5 meters in some areas, urging caution for seafarers and fishermen.

The relevant authorities urge everyone to follow current weather forecasts and adhere to safety instructions, especially for respiratory patients in dusty areas, and for drivers in areas of rain and fog.