Residents across much of Saudi Arabia should prepare for a period of unsettled weather beginning Tuesday, as the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) forecasts widespread dust storms and a significant temperature drop. The conditions are expected to persist through Thursday, impacting travel and outdoor activities in several regions. The NCM warns of potential visibility issues due to the strong winds and advises caution.
The affected areas will span from the northern reaches of the Kingdom to parts of the southwest and east. Specifically, the NCM predicts minimum temperatures could fall below freezing in Tabuk, Al-Jouf, the Northern Borders, Hail, and the northern Madinah region. These conditions represent a notable shift from recent warmer temperatures and require preparation.
Understanding the Forecasted Temperature Drop and Dust Storms
The NCM’s forecast centers on a cold air mass moving across the Arabian Peninsula. This system is expected to bring not only lower temperatures but also increased wind activity, creating conditions ripe for dust and sandstorms. The timing of the most intense weather varies by region, with the northern areas experiencing the coldest temperatures first.
Regional Impacts: A Timeline
The initial impact on Tuesday will be felt in Al-Jouf and the Northern Borders regions, with active surface winds raising dust and sand. These winds are then predicted to expand southward Tuesday evening and into Wednesday, encompassing Hail, Al-Qassim, Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and Najran.
The influence of the weather system will continue to spread on Wednesday and Thursday, reaching the eastern parts of Asir and Al-Baha, as well as the Makkah and Madinah regions, including their coastal areas. This broader reach suggests a large-scale weather event affecting a substantial portion of the country. The NCM has not specified the expected wind speeds, but the warning indicates they will be strong enough to significantly reduce visibility.
The predicted temperature drop is particularly concerning in the northern regions, where temperatures could plummet to between 2 and -2 degrees Celsius. This is a substantial decrease and could lead to frost formation in some areas. Further south, in Al-Qassim and the northern parts of the Eastern Province and Riyadh, temperatures are expected to fall between 4 and 1 degrees Celsius.
These conditions are not uncommon for Saudi Arabia during the winter months, as the country experiences fluctuations in temperature and is susceptible to dust storms originating from surrounding deserts. However, the extent of the forecasted cold weather and dust activity warrants attention and preparation.
The potential for reduced visibility due to dust and sandstorms poses a risk to transportation, particularly road travel. Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution, slow down, and use headlights when visibility is impaired. Airlines may also experience disruptions, and passengers should check with their carriers for updates on flight schedules.
Additionally, the cold temperatures could impact agricultural areas, potentially damaging crops sensitive to frost. Farmers in the affected regions are likely taking preventative measures, such as covering plants or using irrigation to protect against freezing conditions. The impact on livestock is also a consideration, requiring shelter and potentially supplemental feeding.
The NCM’s forecasts are based on advanced meteorological modeling and observations. They regularly update their predictions as the weather system evolves, providing the public with the most current information available. Staying informed through official channels is crucial for mitigating the risks associated with these conditions.
The Ministry of Health has not issued specific advisories related to the forecast, but generally recommends that individuals with respiratory problems take extra precautions during dust storms, such as staying indoors and wearing masks if necessary. The weather forecast also impacts outdoor workers, who should be provided with appropriate protective gear and scheduled to minimize exposure during peak wind and cold periods.
Looking ahead, the NCM indicates that the cold air mass and associated dust storms are expected to gradually dissipate by Friday. However, the exact timing and intensity of the clearing remain uncertain. Residents should continue to monitor official weather updates for any changes to the forecast and be prepared for potentially lingering effects into the weekend. The long-term impact on regional air quality will also be a factor to watch in the coming days.
The situation highlights the importance of preparedness for seasonal weather changes in Saudi Arabia. The NCM’s proactive warnings allow residents and businesses to take necessary steps to protect themselves and their operations from the adverse effects of the temperature drop and dust storms.
