Wednesday's weather: Dust and active winds in Riyadh and the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an important warning regarding the expected weather conditions for Wednesday, indicating that large parts of the Riyadh and Eastern regions will be affected by weather fluctuations, including surface wind activity and dust storms, which necessitates caution and vigilance on the part of citizens, residents, and highway users.
Weather details for the Riyadh region
The weather report indicated that the weather conditions in the Riyadh region would begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 7:00 PM. These conditions would include active winds stirring up dust, leading to a decrease in horizontal visibility to levels ranging between 3 and 5 kilometers. This weather pattern would be particularly concentrated in the northern governorates of the region, specifically:
- Al-Zulfi
- The angry one
- The complex
- spears
- blond
Eastern Province weather and dust effects
Simultaneously with the situation in Riyadh, the Eastern Province is experiencing similar weather conditions, with the center issuing a warning of blowing dust and strong winds starting at 9:00 AM and ending by 7:00 PM. The warning includes several key governorates, namely:
- Hafr Al-Batin
- Al-Khafji
- Al-Nu'ayriyah
- Upper Village
Forecasts indicate that these areas will experience a decrease in horizontal visibility at the same rates (3-5 km), requiring extra attention while driving.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These weather fluctuations occur during transitional periods in the Kingdom's atmosphere, when surface winds are often active in open and desert areas, contributing to the stirring up of suspended dust. The areas mentioned in the report (north of Riyadh and the interior parts of the Eastern Province) are characterized by their open geography, making them highly susceptible to changes in atmospheric pressure and wind patterns.
Public safety recommendations
Due to the expected low horizontal visibility, traffic safety experts advise drivers on highways connecting Riyadh to the Eastern Province, as well as roads linking the affected governorates, to exercise caution, maintain a safe distance between vehicles, and use hazard lights when necessary. Those with respiratory conditions and asthma are also advised to avoid direct exposure to dust during peak hours of this weather event and to stay updated on any developments by the National Center of Meteorology and Environmental Protection.
