Saudi Arabia weather today: 3 degrees Celsius in Tabuk and Hail, and a dust storm
Several regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia witnessed a noticeable drop in temperatures on Monday, January 19, 2026, with the cities of Tabuk and Hail recording the lowest minimum temperatures of 3 degrees Celsius, reflecting the peak of the cold wave affecting the northern and northwestern regions of the Kingdom.
Details of recorded temperatures
According to data from the National Center for Meteorology, the cold weather was not limited to Tabuk and Hail, but extended to other regions as well. Arar recorded a low of 4 degrees Celsius, followed by Rafha, Tarif, and Sakaka, which recorded 5 degrees Celsius. Similarly, the minimum temperature in both the Qassim region and Qurayyat reached 7 degrees Celsius, prompting residents to take necessary precautions against the severe cold, especially during the night and early morning hours.
The climatic context and nature of winter in northern regions
These low temperatures are typical of the Kingdom's climate during January, as the northern regions are usually affected by cold polar air masses from the north, making them the "coldest part of the Kingdom" during winter. This situation is particularly significant due to its direct impact on daily activities and energy consumption for heating, as well as its effect on the agricultural sector, which could be affected by potential frost if the low temperatures persist.
Weather phenomena: Active winds and dense fog
In addition to the cold weather, the National Center for Meteorology explained that the expected weather conditions indicate active surface winds stirring up dust and sand, which may lead to reduced horizontal visibility in parts of Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, and the Eastern Province. These phenomena are common at this time of year due to temperature and atmospheric pressure differences.
The center also warned of the possibility of fog forming during the night and early morning hours, which could disrupt traffic on highways in parts of the aforementioned regions, as well as parts of the Tabuk and Madinah regions, and the western and southwestern highlands. This warning is of utmost importance to drivers and intercity travelers, urging them to exercise caution and drive at reduced speeds.
State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, the Red Sea is experiencing northwesterly to northerly surface winds in its northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southerly winds in its southern part, with speeds reaching up to 45 km/h and the formation of thunderstorms. Wave heights range from half a meter to two meters in the presence of thunderstorms.
In the Arabian Gulf, southeasterly to southerly winds will be active at speeds of up to 45 km/h, with wave heights reaching up to two meters, coinciding with the formation of rain-bearing thunderclouds over the northern part, which necessitates caution for seafarers and fishermen.
