Tarif records -1°C... Weather conditions and dust alerts in the Eastern Province
Northern regions of Saudi Arabia experienced a significant drop in temperatures, with the city of Tarif recording the lowest temperature in the Kingdom on Tuesday, according to official data from the National Center for Meteorology. The center explained in its daily weather report that Tarif recorded a temperature of -1 degree Celsius, reflecting the harsh winter conditions currently affecting the northern regions.
Statement of recorded temperatures in the cities of the Kingdom
Observational reports showed variations in minimum temperatures recorded in several cities and governorates across the Kingdom, with Al-Qurayyat recording the second-highest temperature after Tarif, registering zero degrees Celsius. These temperatures are considered normal for the northern regions at this time of year, as they are affected by cold air masses coming from the north. The minimum temperatures in the remaining cities were ranked as follows:
- Tarif: -1 degrees Celsius.
- Al Qurayyat: 0 degrees Celsius.
- Hail: 3 degrees Celsius.
- Tabuk: 3 degrees Celsius.
- Arar: 4 degrees Celsius.
- Buraidah: 5 degrees Celsius.
This decrease indicates the need for residents in those areas to take the necessary precautions, especially with regard to wearing heavy winter clothing and using safe heating methods, given the effects that frost may have on daily life and crops.
Dust and sandstorm alerts in the Eastern Province
In a related and contrasting development to the cold weather in the north, the National Center of Meteorology issued an important alert for the eastern region, warning of strong surface winds that will stir up dust and sand. According to the report, this weather condition will begin at 11:00 PM on Tuesday and continue until 9:00 AM on Wednesday, urging drivers and highway users to take precautions.
The weather conditions will affect a wide range of governorates and cities in the Eastern Province, including Jubail, Khobar, Khafji, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Nairyah, Qaryat Al-Ulya, Hafr Al-Batin, Al-Ahsa, and Abqaiq. These strong winds are expected to cause near-zero horizontal visibility, with visibility potentially ranging from only 1 to 3 kilometers, in addition to high waves along the coast, which may affect maritime navigation and fishing activities.
Weather effects and safety recommendations
Following weather forecasts is of paramount importance in such volatile conditions, as the Kingdom is currently experiencing a combination of severe cold waves in the north and dusty winds in the east. Experts advise caution while driving in areas with reduced visibility in the Eastern Province and recommend avoiding high speeds. Those with respiratory conditions and asthma in dust-affected areas are also advised to avoid direct exposure to open air during the warning period to ensure their safety.
