JEDDAH — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) in Saudi Arabia has issued widespread weather alerts for Tuesday, warning of significant dust storms impacting visibility and posing risks to public safety across multiple regions. Severe conditions are predicted for the Eastern Province and Northern Borders, with orange and yellow alerts also in effect for parts of the Riyadh region and additional areas in the East. These weather events are expected to disrupt daily life and potentially impact transportation.
The alerts primarily cover areas in the north and east of the Kingdom, extending into central regions. Red alerts, the highest level issued by the NCM, are in place for Al-Khafji and Hafar Al-Batin in the Eastern Province, and for Al-Uwayqilah, Arar, and Rafha in the Northern Borders region. These warnings indicate extremely low visibility due to intense dust and sand.
Understanding the Current Dust Storm Situation in Saudi Arabia
The NCM’s alerts are based on forecasts of strong, active winds lifting substantial amounts of dust and sand into the atmosphere. According to satellite imagery released by the center, a dense dust cloud is already affecting parts of Al-Jawf and the Northern Borders, with visibility reported as zero or near-zero in some locations. This situation is anticipated to continue for several hours.
The Eastern Province is facing a particularly severe threat, with the red alert spanning from 4:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time. Similar conditions are expected in the Northern Borders, with alert times varying slightly between cities. The Riyadh region is under an orange alert from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for several governorates, suggesting reduced visibility between one and three kilometers.
Regional Breakdown of Alerts
The NCM has provided a detailed breakdown of the alerts by region. In the Riyadh region, Al-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Al-Majmaah, Shaqra, Thadiq, Huraymila, Rimah, Durma, Marrat, Al-Dawadmi, Al-Rayn, Al-Quwayiyah, Afif, Riyadh, and Diriyah are all included in the orange warning. A separate yellow alert covers the southern parts of the region, including Al-Hareeq, Al-Kharj, Al-Dilam, Al-Muzahimiyah, and Hotat Bani Tamim.
Additionally, the Eastern Province has specific warnings for Al-Nuayriyah and Qaryat Al-Ulya, mirroring the timeframe of the broader regional alert. These localized warnings highlight the varied intensity of the weather conditions across the affected areas.
Dust storms are a recurring phenomenon in Saudi Arabia, particularly during the spring and summer months. These storms are often associated with seasonal low-pressure systems and strong winds that pick up loose sand and dust from the desert terrain. The Kingdom’s geographical location and arid climate contribute to the frequency and intensity of these events.
The NCM emphasizes the importance of public awareness and preparedness during these periods. Reduced visibility can create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. The airborne dust can also exacerbate respiratory problems, particularly for individuals with asthma or other pre-existing conditions. The Ministry of Health often issues related advisories during periods of heightened dust activity.
The current sandstorm activity is linked to a larger weather pattern affecting the Middle East. Meteorological reports indicate that a series of low-pressure systems are tracking across the region, bringing with them strong winds and unstable atmospheric conditions. This broader context suggests that similar events may occur in neighboring countries.
Authorities are urging residents in the affected areas to take necessary precautions. This includes staying indoors whenever possible, closing windows and doors, and wearing masks if venturing outside. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, use headlights, and avoid unnecessary travel. The NCM also recommends following official updates and instructions from local authorities. The impact on air quality is a significant concern, and individuals are advised to limit strenuous outdoor activity.
The NCM’s proactive issuance of these alerts demonstrates an increased focus on public safety in the face of extreme weather events. The use of a tiered alert system – red, orange, and yellow – allows for a more nuanced and targeted response, ensuring that communities are adequately informed about the specific risks they face. This approach is consistent with international best practices in meteorological forecasting and warning dissemination.
Looking ahead, the NCM is continuing to monitor the situation closely. The duration and intensity of the dust storms remain uncertain, and further updates will be issued as the weather pattern evolves. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by checking the NCM’s website and social media channels for the latest forecasts and alerts. The potential for these conditions to persist or even worsen in the coming days warrants continued vigilance.
The NCM will likely provide a more detailed analysis of the storm’s trajectory and dissipation rate later today. Monitoring the wind speeds and dust concentrations will be crucial in determining the long-term impact of this dust and sand. Further reports are expected to clarify the extent to which air travel and other essential services may be affected.