Weather forecast for the first day of Eid al-Adha: Details of the weather conditions in Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia revealed details of the expected weather conditions coinciding with the arrival of Eid, as the forecasts indicate that the weather on the first day of Eid al-Adha will witness varying weather fluctuations, including surface wind activity that stirs up dust and sand, with a chance of thunderstorms and rain over some highlands and vital areas in the Kingdom, which calls for caution and vigilance by citizens, residents and pilgrims.
Rainfall distribution and wind activity in different regions
According to an official statement issued by the National Center for Meteorology, the impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand, which may lead to reduced horizontal visibility, will continue across large parts of the Makkah, Madinah, Hail, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders regions. This impact also extends to parts of the Qassim, Riyadh, and Eastern Province regions, requiring drivers on highways to exercise extreme caution.
Conversely, the formation of rain-bearing thunderclouds accompanied by active winds over parts of the highlands of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha regions is not ruled out. This is a common climatic phenomenon at this time of year in the southwestern highlands of the Kingdom as a result of the flow of humid air masses.
The effects of the weather on the first day of Eid al-Adha on pilgrims and citizens
Monitoring weather conditions is of paramount importance this year due to the Eid al-Adha holiday coinciding with the Hajj season, during which millions of pilgrims will be present in the holy sites to perform their rituals. The weather on the first day of Eid al-Adha directly impacts the movement of pilgrims between the holy sites, particularly in Mina for the stoning of the Jamarat. Government and service agencies across the Kingdom are working around the clock to provide logistical and medical support, as well as cooling systems and water misting on roads to mitigate the effects of high temperatures and dust storms.
Historically, Saudi Arabia experiences high temperatures during the summer, approaching 50 degrees Celsius in some eastern and central regions, while the southwestern highlands offer a more moderate respite thanks to seasonal rainfall. This geographical and climatic variation necessitates that relevant authorities develop flexible contingency plans to address any sudden weather changes that might affect the safety of pilgrims or local and regional traffic.
Maritime navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
The Meteorological Center detailed the conditions of the Red Sea during the first days of Eid, stating that surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds ranging from 25 to 45 km/h in the northern and central parts, and northwesterly to westerly at speeds ranging from 15 to 32 km/h in the southern part. Wave heights will range from 1.5 to 2 meters in the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to 1.5 meters in the southern part, resulting in moderate to slight sea conditions in some areas.
As for the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northerly to northwesterly in the northern and central parts, and northwesterly to southwesterly in the southern part, with speeds ranging from 12 to 35 km/h. Wave height will range from half a meter to one and a half meters, resulting in a slight to moderate sea state, suitable for light maritime activities. Regular updates should be monitored.
Tips and guidelines for dealing with hot and dusty weather
Under these weather conditions, experts advise avoiding prolonged direct sun exposure, especially during midday hours, and drinking plenty of fluids to prevent heat exhaustion. Those with respiratory conditions are also advised to avoid going out during periods of strong, dusty winds and to wear protective masks to ensure their safety and a safe and happy Eid for everyone.
