Saudi Arabia Braces for Widespread Weather Disruptions
Seven Regions Warned of Rain, Dust, and High Winds
Seven Saudi Arabian regions are on alert as the National Meteorological Center forecasts varied weather conditions, including rain, strong winds, and dust. Residents are urged to exercise caution, especially near wadis and on roadways, as the impacts begin Thursday.
Makkah and Coastal Areas Face Gusty Conditions
Makkah Al-Mukarramah and its surrounding governorates, including Jeddah, Rabigh, Al-Kamil, Al-Jumum, and Khulais, will experience gusts of wind up to 49 km/hour. This is expected to reduce visibility and stir up dust. Similar conditions are anticipated in Al-Shuaiba and Al-Qunfudhah, with increased wave heights.
Al-Madinah Region Sees Wind and Dust Activity
In Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the Al-Eis Governorate is set for strong winds between 11:00 and 17:00. Raised dust and higher waves are predicted for Al-Rayes and Yanbu from 09:00 to 21:00. Active winds will also affect Badr and the Valley of the branch during this period.
Southern Regions Prepare for Severe Winds and Torrents
Southern governorates like Taif, Adham, Bani Yazid, Hazm, Maysan, and Wilm are bracing for severe winds accompanied by cold temperatures, with potential torrents. Al-Ardiyyat Governorate is expected to receive light rain.
Jazan Experiences Dust, Waves, and Moderate Rain
Jazan’s weather impacts commenced this morning in Baysh and Al-Darb with dust and high waves. Farasan Governorate is also seeing active winds. Medium rains are forecast for Al-Harath, Al-Darat, Al-Rith, Al-Ardah, Al-Eidabi, FIFA, and Haroub from 13:00 into the evening. Light rains are expected in Abu Arish, Tha’ban, Al-Tala’, Al-Boi’, Samtah, and Al-Dhamd.
Asir and Al-Baha Regions Anticipate Mixed Weather
Moderate conditions are anticipated across Asir, affecting areas such as Al-Namas, Balqarn, Tanumah, Al-Sha’a, Muhayil, Dhahran Al-South, Al-Harjah, Sharah Ubaidah, Al-Farash, Abha, Ahad Rafidah, and Khamis Mushait. In Al-Baha, Al-Hijir, Al-Makhwah, Qalwa, and Ghamid Al-Zanad’s Farah will see raised dust from 09:00 to 21:00. Medium rains are predicted for Al-Baha city, Al-Aqiq, Al-Mandaq, Baljurashi, and Bani Hassan from 13:00 to 20:00. Light rain is also forecasted for Ghorah, Qalwa, Al-Makhwah, and Ghamd Al-Zanad’s Gline during the same hours.
The forecast aligns with increased dust storm activity in the region; for instance, a significant dust storm recently impacted parts of Oman, causing flight disruptions. Saudi Arabia’s National Center of Meteorology issues these alerts to ensure public safety. (Times of Oman, 2023).