Saudi Arabia weather: Temperatures to drop to zero and heavy dust until Thursday

The National Center for Meteorology issued an important report on the weather conditions in Saudi Arabia over the coming days, warning of severe weather fluctuations including a significant drop in temperatures and strong surface winds that will stir up dust and sand. These forecasts cover the period from Tuesday to Thursday (January 20-22), urging citizens and residents in the affected areas to take precautions.

Temperatures drop below zero

According to the center's statement, the northern regions of the Kingdom will begin to experience the effects of the cold air mass starting Tuesday. These regions include Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, and the northern part of the Madinah region . Minimum temperatures in these areas are expected to range between 2 degrees Celsius and -2 degrees Celsius , indicating very cold conditions that require careful preparation, especially during the night and early morning hours.

The report indicated that the cold wave's impact would expand on Wednesday and Thursday to include other areas in the central and eastern parts of the Kingdom, with the drop in temperature extending to the Qassim and the northern parts of the Eastern Province and Riyadh . Forecasts indicate that minimum temperatures in these areas will range between 1 and 4 degrees Celsius .

Surface wind activity and dust

The change in weather conditions is not limited to temperatures; it also coincides with a noticeable increase in surface wind activity. The National Center of Meteorology has outlined the expected wind patterns as follows:

• Tuesday: Dust-raising winds will begin to affect the Al-Jawf and Northern Borders regions.
• Tuesday evening and Wednesday: The winds will extend to the regions of Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and Najran, which may lead to a decrease in horizontal visibility.
• On Wednesday and Thursday: The winds will continue to affect the eastern parts of the Asir and Al-Baha regions, as well as the Makkah and Madinah regions, including their coastal areas.

Climate context and the importance of warnings

These weather fluctuations come within the context of the Kingdom's winter season, during which the region is typically exposed to polar air masses from the north at this time of year (January), leading to a sharp drop in temperatures known locally as "Shabṭ" or the peak of winter. These warnings are particularly important given their direct impact on daily life, whether regarding traffic on highways, which may be affected by dust storms, or concerning public health and the prevention of colds.

The National Center of Meteorology called on everyone to follow the continuous updates through its official channels, and to adhere to the instructions of the concerned authorities, especially drivers and visitors to desert and open areas, to ensure their safety during the period of weather fluctuations.