Today's weather details in Saudi Arabia: Rain and active winds
The National Center for Meteorology, in its detailed weather for Wednesday in Saudi Arabia, announced the continuation of unstable weather conditions in several regions. The center predicted that the chance of thunderstorms of varying intensity, accompanied by hail, remains high, urging citizens and residents to exercise caution.
These forecasts include parts of the highlands of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions. Meanwhile, the impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand continues, reducing horizontal visibility in parts of the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Madinah, and Tabuk regions. This condition will lead to near-zero horizontal visibility in parts of Al-Jawf and the Northern Borders regions.
Climate context: Why is the Kingdom experiencing these weather fluctuations?
Historically, the Arabian Peninsula, and Saudi Arabia in particular, has been known for its sharp weather fluctuations during the transitional periods between seasons. These active winds and dust storms are part of the typical climatic pattern at this time of year, as warm and cold air masses collide, leading to the formation of thunderstorms and increased surface wind activity. The Kingdom's diverse topography, from the Sarawat Mountains in the west to the vast plains in the east, also plays a significant role in the variations in weather from one region to another.
The effects of today's weather on public life and navigation
These weather changes have tangible effects on various levels. Locally, dust storms and reduced visibility directly impact traffic on highways, requiring drivers to exercise extreme caution to avoid accidents. These conditions also affect those with respiratory illnesses, necessitating their adherence to health guidelines. Economically and agriculturally, the thunderstorms in the southwestern highlands are crucial for replenishing groundwater and supporting the vegetation and agricultural terraces for which the region is renowned.
Maritime navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regionally, wind speed affects maritime navigation. In the Red Sea, surface winds are northwesterly to northerly in the northern and central parts, and northwesterly to westerly in the southern part, with speeds ranging from 10 to 25 km/h. Wave heights range from half a meter to one meter, resulting in calm sea conditions. In the Arabian Gulf, surface winds are northwesterly to westerly at the same speed (10-25 km/h), and wave heights and sea conditions are similar to those in the Red Sea.
Advanced weather alerts for the Eastern Province
In a related development, the National Center for Meteorology issued special alerts for the Eastern Province, warning of strong winds and blowing dust. This weather pattern is expected to begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 9:00 PM, affecting the cities of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, and Ras Tanura.
The accompanying effects include reduced horizontal visibility, high waves along the coasts, and winds reaching speeds of 40-49 kilometers per hour. Other parts of the Eastern Province will also experience blowing dust starting at 8:00 AM and continuing until 7:00 PM. This warning includes Hafr Al-Batin, Al-Khafji, Al-Nairiyah, Qaryat Al-Ulya, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, and Abqaiq. This dust will be accompanied by strong winds and reduced horizontal visibility ranging from 3 to 5 kilometers.
