Saudi Arabia weather: Al-Qurayyat and Hail at one degree, dust obscuring visibility
Various regions of Saudi Arabia experienced a significant and sharp drop in temperatures. The cities of Qurayyat and Hail recorded the lowest minimum temperatures of the day, Monday, January 26, at just 1 degree Celsius, reflecting the peak of winter in the northern regions. Meanwhile, the city of Tarif recorded 2 degrees Celsius, while Sakaka, Dawadmi, and Arar all recorded 3 degrees Celsius, indicating the influence of a cold air mass on the northern and central regions.
According to the report issued by the National Center for Meteorology, temperatures continued to drop in other regions, with lows reaching 4 degrees Celsius in Rafha and Buraidah, 5 degrees in Tabuk, 6 degrees in Hafr Al-Batin, and 7 degrees in the capital, Riyadh. This decrease coincides with the start of the winter season, known as Al-Murabba'aniyah, which typically sees a significant drop in temperatures, especially in open and desert areas.
Surface winds and reduced visibility
Regarding the accompanying weather phenomena, the National Center for Meteorology explained that the weather conditions are not limited to cold temperatures, but also include active winds that stir up dust and sand. This wind activity may lead to near-zero horizontal visibility, requiring extreme caution from drivers on highways, especially in parts of the Riyadh, Eastern Province, and Najran regions. This condition extends to include the eastern parts of the southwestern highlands, as well as parts of the Makkah, Madinah, and Tabuk regions.
Climate context and its effects
These cold waves are a natural part of the Kingdom's climate at this time of year, as the northern regions are affected by Siberian high-pressure systems or polar air masses that contribute to temperatures dropping to near zero degrees Celsius and sometimes even below. This situation has direct effects on daily life, increasing the need for safe heating methods. Doctors also typically advise respiratory and asthma patients to avoid direct exposure to the dust and sand currently being stirred up.
Sea conditions and chances of rain
Regarding the maritime situation, the report indicated active winds over the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, with wave heights reaching up to two meters in some areas, resulting in moderate to rough sea conditions, particularly towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The center also noted the possibility of light rain accompanied by fog in parts of the Jazan and Asir regions, urging everyone to exercise caution and stay updated on ongoing weather reports.
