Weather alert: Yellow warning and dust storms in Riyadh and the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology issued an official yellow alert, warning of weather fluctuations affecting large parts of the Riyadh and Eastern Provinces, as part of its ongoing monitoring of weather in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The report indicates increased surface wind activity and dust storms, urging citizens and residents to take precautions.
Details of the yellow alert in the Riyadh region
The center explained that the expected weather conditions in the Riyadh region will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 7:00 PM on Thursday. The accompanying effects include increased wind activity leading to dust storms, which will reduce horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers.
The areas affected by this alert include Al-Aflaj, As-Sulayyil, Wadi Ad-Dawasir, Ad-Dawadmi, Afif, Ar-Rayn, and Al-Quway'iyah. This weather pattern is part of the typical weather system affecting the central regions at this time of year, characterized by active dust-raising winds in open areas and along highways.
Weather conditions in the Eastern Province
In parallel with the situation in Riyadh, the Eastern Province experienced similar warnings regarding strong winds and blowing dust. These warnings covered the cities of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, and Ras Tanura, where wind speeds reached 40-49 kilometers per hour, accompanied by reduced horizontal visibility. The effects of the blowing dust also extended to Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, Abqaiq, and Dhahbalutan.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These warnings are particularly important given the Kingdom's geographical nature, where transitional periods between seasons create a fertile environment for dust storms due to temperature differences and variations in atmospheric pressure. These storms directly impact transportation and travel on the roads connecting the Kingdom's far-flung regions, highlighting the crucial role of the National Center for Meteorology in providing proactive information to ensure the safety of lives and property.
Rainfall and general weather forecast
In a related development, the National Center for Meteorology indicated that the chances of thunderstorms would continue over the southern and western highlands on Thursday. The forecast includes parts of the Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, and may extend to the southern parts of the Madinah region.
The report also indicated the possibility of light rain in parts of central Saudi Arabia, coinciding with surface winds stirring up dust and sand in parts of Najran, Qassim, Hail, Al-Jawf, and the western parts of the Northern Borders region. Authorities urge everyone to follow official weather forecasts and adhere to safety instructions while driving in dusty or rainy conditions.
