Weather in Saudi Arabia: Thunderstorms and winds in 7 regions
is experiencing Saudi Arabia significant weather fluctuations during this period. The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily report forecasting thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and hail across large parts of the Kingdom. These forecasts cover seven major regions, urging citizens and residents to take precautions. The affected areas include the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Najran, Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and the southern parts of the Makkah region.
Diverse climate and seasonal weather fluctuations
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is characterized by significant geographical and climatic diversity, resulting in weather conditions from one region to another. Historically, the transitional periods between seasons are known for increased likelihood of thunderstorms and rain, particularly in the southwestern highlands and the central and eastern regions. The National Center of Meteorology continuously monitors these changes using the latest technologies to ensure the safety of lives and property. These rains are part of the natural climatic cycle, contributing to the replenishment of groundwater resources and supporting vegetation cover in the desert and semi-desert environments that characterize the country's topography.
Impact of active winds and dust storms
In a related context, the report indicated the continued impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand, which may lead to reduced horizontal visibility. This condition, along with a chance of light rain, is concentrated in parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, and Tabuk regions, with its effects later extending to parts of the Madinah, Hail, and Qassim regions.
Expected consequences and public safety guidelines
Constant weather updates play a vital role in regulating daily life. Locally, these weather changes directly affect land and sea traffic, necessitating the mobilization of relevant authorities such as civil defense and traffic departments to manage traffic flow and prevent accidents. These rains also have a positive impact on the local agricultural sector. Authorities consistently emphasize the importance of staying away from floodplains and wadis during heavy rain and thunderstorms to ensure public safety.
Navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
As for sea conditions, the report provided detailed information of interest to fishermen and coastal users. In the Red Sea, surface winds will be southwesterly to northwesterly at speeds ranging from 10 to 25 km/h, potentially reaching 50 km/h with the formation of rain-bearing thunderstorms in the northern part. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one meter, occasionally reaching two meters, resulting in sea conditions ranging from slight to moderate, becoming occasionally rough.
In the Arabian Gulf, northeasterly to southeasterly surface winds blow at speeds of 10-26 km/h, reaching up to 55 km/h with thunderstorms. Wave heights range from half a meter to one meter, occasionally exceeding two meters, creating sea conditions similar to the Red Sea in terms of turbulence during storms.
Advanced alerts for weather developments in Eastern Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology issued a detailed warning for the Eastern Province, forecasting light to moderate rainfall starting at 5:00 PM on Monday and continuing until the early hours (2:00 AM) of Tuesday. This warning covers the cities and governorates of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, Abqaiq, Khafji, Nairyah, Qaryat Al-Ulya, and Hafr Al-Batin. This weather system will be accompanied by strong winds, reduced horizontal visibility, and thunderstorms, requiring extreme caution while driving during these times.
