Tarif and Rafha record 1 degree Celsius... Meteorology warns of a cold wave

Northern regions of Saudi Arabia, specifically the Northern Borders region, witnessed a noticeable and sharp drop in temperatures as the early morning hours of this day began, with the governorates of Tarif and Rafha topping the list of Saudi cities in recording the lowest temperatures.

According to a report issued by the National Center for Meteorology, the two governorates recorded a low temperature of 1°C, making them the coldest in the Kingdom over the past 24 hours. This drop coincides with the influx of cold, polar air masses directly affecting the northern and northwestern regions of the country.

Weather details and forecasts

The National Center for Meteorology explained in its daily report that the cold wave affecting the Northern Borders region is not limited to a drop in minimum temperatures, but also includes increased surface wind activity that amplifies the feeling of cold, in addition to the possibility of frost formation during the dawn and early morning hours. While such weather conditions are typical for this time of year, their intensity warrants attention and continuous monitoring of weather forecasts.

Interesting... a history of winter records

Geographically and climatically, this drop in temperature is not unusual for the province of Tarif, which is situated at high altitudes and is directly affected by climatic influences from the Levant and Europe. Historically, Tarif has recorded record low temperatures in the Arabian Peninsula, with temperatures previously dropping below freezing in past winters, earning it a reputation as one of the coldest inhabited places in the Kingdom.

Important recommendations for dealing with cold waves

Given these extremely cold conditions, relevant authorities, including Civil Defense and the Ministry of Health, are renewing their calls for the necessity of taking all preventive measures. These include:

• Wearing heavy winter clothing, especially for children and the elderly, is recommended to avoid colds and winter illnesses.
• Take care when using different heating methods, whether electric or those powered by coal and wood, and ensure that enclosed spaces are well ventilated to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning accidents.
• Drive cautiously on highways in the early morning hours due to the possibility of reduced horizontal visibility caused by fog or the formation of layers of frost on the roads.

Following official alerts issued by the early warning system remains the best way to ensure everyone’s safety and to deal optimally with the winter weather fluctuations witnessed in the various regions of the Kingdom.