Al-Jawf weather: Dust warning and reduced visibility in Sakaka and Al-Qurayyat
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an important warning today regarding the expected weather conditions in the Al-Jawf region, indicating that the region will be affected by active surface winds that stir up dust and sand, leading to a decrease in horizontal visibility in a number of governorates.
The center explained in its daily report that the weather conditions will affect the city of Sakaka, as well as the governorates of Dumat al-Jandal, Qurayyat, and Tabuk. These weather phenomena are expected to begin tomorrow, Monday, with the actual impact starting at 9:00 AM and continuing until 5:00 PM, necessitating caution from motorists and residents of the area.
Weather details and its effects
According to data from the National Center for Meteorology, strong winds will stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility to between 3 and 5 kilometers. This is a common phenomenon in the northern regions of the Kingdom during periods of transitional weather fluctuations, when surface winds are active in open and desert areas.
Geographical context and importance of alert
The Al-Jawf region holds significant strategic and geographical importance, serving as the Kingdom's breadbasket and renowned for its olive and date palm cultivation. It also boasts a vital road network connecting the north and center of the Kingdom, in addition to international highways passing through Al-Qurayyat towards Jordan. Therefore, any reduction in horizontal visibility directly impacts land transport and the safety of travelers on these open highways, which are often susceptible to crosswinds and dust storms.
Safety and prevention guidelines
In light of these conditions, experts and relevant authorities advise drivers to exercise caution while driving on highways between the Al-Jawf governorates (Sakaka, Dumat Al-Jandal, Tabarjal, and Al-Qurayyat), maintain a safe following distance, and use hazard lights when necessary. Those with respiratory conditions and asthma are also advised to avoid direct exposure to dust and sand during the warning period and to remain indoors as much as possible until the dust storm subsides.
This alert comes as part of the ongoing efforts of the National Center for Meteorology to provide accurate and immediate weather information, with the aim of protecting lives and property, and enhancing community awareness on how to deal with the various weather phenomena witnessed in the regions of the Kingdom.
