Today's weather forecast (Saturday): Extreme cold and fog in Saudi Arabia

The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia revealed details of the expected weather conditions for today, Saturday , as official forecasts indicated the continuation of distinctly winter weather, characterized by a drop in temperatures and the formation of dense fog in several vital regions of the Kingdom, which calls for caution and vigilance on the part of citizens and residents.

Weather details and warnings

According to the meteorological report, the weather will remain cold to very cold in the northern and central regions of the Kingdom. This drop in temperature is not limited to open areas but extends to the mountainous regions of Makkah and Al-Baha. This cold wave coincides with a high chance of fog and frost, especially during the late night and early morning hours, which may significantly reduce horizontal visibility on highways and in open areas in those regions.

Surface winds and dust

In a related development, the meteorological department warned of continued strong winds that may stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility in parts of the Eastern Province. This effect extends to parts of Tabuk, Madinah, and Makkah, particularly their coastal areas. This wind activity is part of the weather system currently affecting the Arabian Peninsula.

State of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf

Regarding the marine conditions, the report described the movement of waves and winds as follows:

• Red Sea: The northern and central parts are experiencing northeasterly to northerly winds reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h, while the southern part is experiencing northwesterly to southwesterly winds. Wave heights range from one to two meters in the north and center, resulting in moderate sea conditions.
• The Arabian Gulf: It is experiencing active westerly to northwesterly winds that may reach speeds of more than 50 km/h with the formation of rain-bearing thunderclouds, which leads to waves rising to more than two meters and the sea becoming rough at times.

Winter climate context in the Kingdom

These weather fluctuations come in the context of the usual winter climate of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where the northern and central regions are characterized by a continental climate that experiences a sharp drop in temperatures during the winter season, sometimes reaching below zero degrees Celsius, which leads to the formation of frost that in turn affects agricultural crops and traffic.

These warnings are of paramount importance to those traveling on the highways connecting the Kingdom's far-flung regions, as fog is one of the most significant challenges drivers face at this time of year. Authorities consistently urge drivers to follow traffic safety guidelines, reduce speed, and use appropriate lighting when driving in foggy or dusty conditions to ensure everyone's safety.