Saudi Arabia Faces Severe Weather: Cold Temperatures and Sandstorms in Tabuk

The Tabuk region in Saudi Arabia has recently faced severe temperature drops below zero due to a polar wave, resulting in ice formation. Concurrently, a sandstorm affected several areas, including Riyadh, prompting officials to issue weather warnings. Residents have been advised to stay indoors and exercise caution while traveling due to these adverse weather conditions.

On Friday, the Tabuk region of northwestern Saudi Arabia experienced a dramatic drop in temperatures, plunging below zero in the early morning hours. This acute cold led to the formation of ice on water ponds and basins, particularly in open desert areas. Such conditions are typical during winter due to polar air masses originating from northern Europe, which often influence the local climate.

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued warnings about cold to very cold temperatures, predicting frost in certain areas. Regions including the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Hail, and parts of the Madinah region are likely to experience severe cold, while fog formation is anticipated in Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah.

In addition to the winter cold, several areas in Saudi Arabia faced a significant sandstorm on Friday, with the NCM alerting about dust-laden winds affecting visibility. Riyadh’s skyline was engulfed in gray haze, hampering transportation and prompting authorities to issue warnings to residents. Drivers were especially advised to exercise caution during this tumultuous weather.

An incident occurred when a car overturned after colliding with a roadside fence near Takhassusi Street in Riyadh. Emergency responders promptly arrived to assist, illustrating both the direct impact of the sandstorm and the need for heightened vigilance in such adverse weather conditions. Subsequently, the General Directorate of Civil Defense urged citizens to refrain from outdoor activities to prevent accidents during the storm.

Due to the adverse weather conditions, local residents, such as Abdul Ghaffar, altered their plans, canceling family outings that were initially scheduled for the weekend. Their experience highlights the broader impact of the storm on daily life and leisure activities, illustrating how weather can affect community plans and commuter safety.

The recent weather developments in Saudi Arabia highlight the region’s susceptibility to extreme temperature fluctuations and meteorological phenomena, particularly during winter months. The arrival of polar air masses often coincides with significant icy temperatures and the formation of frost, while sandstorms contribute to challenging visibility conditions. Such climatic events necessitate public advisories and heighten the importance of weather awareness among residents to ensure safety and preparedness.

In summary, the Tabuk region’s recent plunge into sub-zero temperatures coupled with the impact of a sandstorm showcases the climatic extremes that Saudi Arabia can face. The National Center for Meteorology has issued multiple warnings regarding expected cold conditions, frost, and diminished visibility due to dust storms. These environmental challenges are influencing daily life, prompting residents to reassess their plans and actions during such weather events.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com