Weather in Saudi Arabia: Thunderstorms and fog in these areas
The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather report for Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, indicating continued weather fluctuations across several regions of the Kingdom. The report explained that the chance of thunderstorms with rain and active winds that stir up dust and sand remains, potentially reducing horizontal visibility in parts of the Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah regions.
Geographical and climatic details of the weather conditions
This weather pattern is typical for this time of year, as the southern and western highlands of the Kingdom are affected by an influx of moisture, contributing to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds over the Sarawat Mountains. These effects extend to the coastal and Tihama regions, necessitating caution while driving on rough or highway roads.
In a related context, the report did not rule out the formation of dense fog during the night and early morning hours in parts of the highlands of the aforementioned regions, in addition to parts of the Eastern Province, the Northern Borders region, Hail, Al-Jawf, and Tabuk. Fog is a weather phenomenon that directly affects traffic, and the relevant authorities have urged drivers to exercise caution and reduce their speed in those areas.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the sea conditions, the center explained that surface winds over the Red Sea will be northerly to northwesterly in the northern and central parts, shifting to southeasterly and southwesterly in the southern part, with speeds ranging from 15 to 30 km/h. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one meter, resulting in calm to moderate sea conditions, which are relatively suitable for maritime activities. However, continuous updates are still necessary.
In the Arabian Gulf, surface winds are southwesterly, gradually turning northwesterly at a speed of 10-25 km/h, with wave heights ranging between half a meter and one meter, and a light sea state.
Special alerts for the Makkah region
In an advanced warning, the National Center for Meteorology specifically alerted the Makkah region to light rainfall, beginning at noon and continuing until 8:00 PM. The affected areas include the governorates of Al-Lith, Adham, Maysan, Taif, Al-Ardiyat, and Al-Qunfudhah. This rainfall is expected to be accompanied by active winds, thunderstorms, and reduced visibility, highlighting the importance of monitoring current weather forecasts to avoid any potential hazards.
The National Center for Meteorology’s reports play a vital role in promoting public safety, as the accuracy of forecasts contributes to enabling service and security agencies to take the necessary measures and to raise awareness among citizens and residents about potential weather hazards, in line with the Kingdom’s efforts to improve the quality of life and environmental safety.
