Weather in Saudi Arabia: Winds and dust in 9 regions, weather alerts issued
The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather for Monday, indicating continued weather fluctuations across most regions of Saudi Arabia. The report predicted significant surface wind activity, stirring up dust and sand, which could reduce horizontal visibility across large parts of the country.
Weather details and affected areas
The report indicated that the impact of the active winds will extend to parts of the Makkah, Madinah, Al-Jawf, Northern Borders, Eastern Province, Riyadh, and Najran regions . This weather pattern also encompasses the eastern parts of the Asir and Al-Baha highlands. This weather pattern is typical for this time of year, as the Kingdom's desert geography contributes to the rapid dust storms that occur when winds are active.
In a related context, the center did not rule out the formation of fog during the night and early morning hours on the western and southwestern coastal parts of the Kingdom, which calls for caution and vigilance for those using highways in those areas.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, the report indicated that the surface wind movement on the Red Sea will be northeasterly to southeasterly on the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southwesterly on the southern part at a speed ranging from 15 to 26 km/h, with wave heights ranging from half a meter to a meter, making the sea state slight.
In the Arabian Gulf , the situation is more turbulent, with northwesterly surface winds reaching speeds of up to 48 km/h, leading to waves rising from one and a half to two and a half meters, and the sea state being moderate to rough, which requires warning seafarers and fishermen in those areas.
Special alerts for the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology issued for the Eastern Province , forecasting strong winds and dust storms in the governorates of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, Abqaiq, and Hafr Al-Batin. This phenomenon is expected to begin at 4:00 AM and continue until 6:00 PM.
Weather effects and safety recommendations
This weather pattern is expected to bring near-zero horizontal visibility (1 to 3 kilometers) in areas affected by the dense dust. Weather experts and relevant authorities advise citizens and residents, especially those with respiratory conditions and asthma, to avoid direct exposure to the dust. Drivers are also advised to exercise extreme caution while driving on highways and open roads due to reduced visibility and the possibility of fog formation in coastal areas.
