Meteorological authorities warn of dense fog and reduced visibility in five Saudi regions today

The National Center for Meteorology issued urgent weather alerts for Monday, indicating the formation of fog of varying intensity that will directly affect horizontal visibility in large parts of five major regions of the Kingdom. These alerts are part of the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions to ensure the safety of citizens and residents.

Weather details and timings

The weather report indicated that the phenomenon began in the early morning hours and is expected to continue until 8:00 AM in some areas, while extending to 9:00 AM in others. The effects of this fog range from reduced horizontal visibility of 3-5 kilometers in some locations to near-zero visibility of 1-3 kilometers in others, necessitating caution while traveling.

The importance of warnings and public safety guidelines

These warnings are of paramount importance given the direct impact of fog on traffic, especially on highways and open roads. Authorities, such as the General Directorate of Traffic and Road Security, typically urge drivers in such conditions to reduce speed, use fog lights, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles to avoid traffic accidents that may result from sudden loss of visibility.

The geographical and climatic context of the affected areas

Fog formation at this time of year is a common climatic phenomenon across the Kingdom's diverse geography. In the Eastern Province , high humidity levels originating from the Arabian Gulf contribute to the formation of dense fog. In mountainous and highland regions such as Asir, Al-Baha, and Taif , the topography and altitude cause clouds to touch the ground, forming what is known as mountain fog, which is often denser and lasts longer.

List of affected cities and governorates

The National Center for Meteorology identified the regions and cities covered by the alert as follows:

• The Eastern Province: includes Jubail, Khobar, Khafji, Dammam, Qatif, Abqaiq, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, and many others.
• Makkah Region: Includes Al Qunfudhah, Al Lith, Taif, Adham, and Maysan.
• Asir region: includes Al Birk, Al Qahmah, Al Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, Abha, Ahad Rafidah, and Khamis Mushait.
• Jazan region: includes Darb, Bish, Jazan, and Farasan.
• Al-Baha region: includes Al-Hujrah, Al-Makhwah, Far’ah Ghamid Al-Zanad, Qalwah, Al-Baha, Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Baljurashi, and Bani Hassan.

The center urges everyone to follow its reports through its official channels to get the latest updates on the weather situation.