Saudi Arabia weather today: Tabuk records 4 degrees and dust warnings issued
A significant drop in temperatures was observed across Saudi Arabia today, with Tabuk recording the lowest temperature at 4 degrees Celsius, a clear indication of the deepening cold air mass affecting the north of the Kingdom. This cold wave coincides with unstable weather conditions, including increased surface wind activity and chances of rainfall, prompting calls for caution from citizens and residents.
In the detailed thermal monitoring of Saudi cities, Hail and Taif came in second place after Tabuk, recording 5 degrees Celsius, reflecting the harsh winter conditions prevailing in the highlands and northern regions. Abha, Khamis Mushait , Qurayyat, and Tarif all recorded 6 degrees Celsius, while temperatures in Al-Ula, Al-Baha, Dawadmi, and Qassim remained stable at 7 degrees Celsius, levels that necessitate wearing heavy winter clothing, especially during the night and early morning hours.
Weather forecast and wind patterns
Regarding weather for Tuesday, December 30, the National Center for Meteorology indicated that active winds stirring up dust and sand will continue to affect the region. This weather condition will significantly reduce horizontal visibility in parts of Al-Jawf and the Northern Borders regions. Its impact will not be limited to the north but will extend to parts of Hail, Al-Qassim, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, potentially affecting land travel between these areas.
The climatic and geographical context of the Kingdom
These temperature drops are a natural part of Saudi Arabia's winter climate. Northern regions (such as Tabuk, Qurayyat, and Tarif) are directly affected by polar air masses from the Northern Hemisphere, resulting in the lowest temperatures in the country, sometimes dropping below freezing and with snowfall at the height of the season. In contrast, topography plays a crucial role in regions like Asir and Taif, where the higher altitude contributes to lower temperatures and dense fog, distinguishing the winters of the southwestern highlands from the rest of the Kingdom's desert regions.
The chances of rain and fog and their impact
According to the National Center for Meteorology , there remains a chance of light rain in parts of northern Saudi Arabia. This type of rain is typically continuous and helps to moderate the temperature and clear the air of dust. The center also warned of the possibility of fog forming during the night and early morning hours in parts of these northern regions, as well as in parts of the highlands of the Jazan and Asir regions.
This variation in weather conditions (dust in the central and eastern regions, and rain and fog in the north and south) is of great importance to drivers and highway users, as it is always advised to leave safe distances, use warning lights in cases of zero visibility, and follow civil defense and meteorological alerts continuously to ensure public safety.
