Severe Weather Impacts Tabuk Region as Temperatures Plunge and Sandstorms Occur

Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, faced freezing temperatures below zero, resulting in ice formation and a major sandstorm causing visibility issues in Riyadh. The National Center for Meteorology issued cold weather warnings, affecting several regions. Residents adjusted their weekend plans due to adverse weather conditions.

In the Tabuk region of northwestern Saudi Arabia, temperatures plummeted below zero early Friday, causing water to freeze in ponds and basins, particularly in exposed desert areas. This drop in temperature highlights the region’s vulnerability to cold waves that stem from polar air masses originating in northern Europe. Such winter conditions have become a defining characteristic of Tabuk’s seasonal weather.

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has predicted continued cold to very cold temperatures across the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Hail, and Tabuk regions, as well as parts of the northern Madinah region, with the potential for frost in some areas. Additionally, the NCM noted the likelihood of fog formation in Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions.

On the same day, an intense sandstorm swept several parts of Saudi Arabia, leading to dust-laden winds and significantly reduced temperatures in regions such as Qassim, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province. The storm impacted Riyadh, reducing visibility with a layer of gray haze covering the city skyline, prompting officials to issue a weather warning.

Due to the storm, motorists were advised to exercise caution while driving. A notable incident included a BMW overturning after colliding with a fence in Riyadh, necessitating police intervention to assist at the scene. Authorities from the General Directorate of Civil Defense urged residents to stay away from outskirts to prevent accidents during the sandstorm.

Riyadh resident Abdul Ghaffar shared, “Friday being (the) weekend, we had an outing plan with family for a barbeque party at Wadi Namar, but the sandstorm that enveloped the city and its outskirts in gray haze this morning has forced us to change the plan, and we decided to remain indoors instead.”

The occurrence of extreme weather events such as cold waves and sandstorms in Saudi Arabia influences daily life and activities in the region. These phenomena are associated with geographical conditions and atmospheric changes, where cold air masses from the north greatly affect temperatures in various regions, particularly during winter. The National Center for Meteorology is responsible for monitoring these conditions and issuing appropriate warnings to ensure public safety.

The Tabuk region of Saudi Arabia experienced severe winter weather, marked by freezing temperatures and a significant sandstorm affecting visibility and safety. The National Center for Meteorology provided warnings regarding the cold across several areas, highlighting ongoing challenges posed by winter conditions. These extreme weather events can alter planned activities, as reflected in the experience of local residents who had to abandon outdoor plans due to the weather.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com