Weather in Saudi Arabia: Heat wave and dust-raising winds

The National Center for Meteorology revealed details of weather in Saudi Arabia , predicting a continued gradual rise in maximum temperatures across several regions, particularly the Eastern Province, Medina, and the southern parts of the Tabuk region. This heat wave coincides with a noticeable increase in surface winds that will stir up dust and sand, leading to reduced horizontal visibility on some highways and in open areas.

A heat wave hits the Eastern Province, with thunderstorms expected

According to the center's report, some provinces in the Eastern Province, such as Al-Ahsa and Buqayq, will experience scorching temperatures ranging between 47 and 48 degrees Celsius. The heatwave alert is in effect from 11:00 AM until 8:00 PM. Meanwhile, the chance of thunderstorms accompanied by active winds remains high in the highlands of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah, and may extend to the southern parts of the Madinah region's highlands.

Wind patterns and conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf

The weather report indicates that surface winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds ranging from 17 to 36 km/h in the northern and central parts, while they will be southwesterly to northwesterly at speeds of 10-25 km/h in the southern part. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one and a half meters in the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to one meter in the southern part, resulting in a slight to moderate sea state. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 16-36 km/h in the north, reaching 20-40 km/h in the central and southern regions, with wave heights reaching up to two meters in the central and southern areas.

Climate context and the impact of weather conditions in Saudi Arabia

Historically, the Arabian Peninsula is known for its arid desert climate, characterized by extreme heat during the summer. This current heat wave is part of the region's typical climatic pattern, where thermal low-pressure systems, such as the Indian monsoon low, dominate the atmosphere, pushing hot, dry air masses that raise temperatures to record levels, approaching 50 degrees Celsius in the desert and eastern regions.

Local impacts and health guidelines for dealing with dust and heat

The impact of these weather fluctuations extends to multiple sectors both locally and regionally. Dust-laden winds, which can reach speeds of up to 49 km/h in some areas such as Al-Udayd and Dha'balutan, directly affect land and air transport due to reduced horizontal visibility of 3 to 5 kilometers. On the health front, medical authorities regularly warn against direct sun exposure during peak hours (from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM) to avoid heatstroke and heat exhaustion. They also advise those with respiratory conditions to take necessary precautions to avoid the effects of airborne dust.