Severe Weather Hits Saudi Arabia: Cold Temperatures and Sandstorms in Tabuk Region

Tabuk region in Saudi Arabia experienced freezing temperatures due to a polar wave, while a sandstorm reduced visibility across various areas, prompting local authorities to issue warnings. Residents faced disruptions to planned activities, highlighting the significant impact of severe weather conditions.

On Friday, the Tabuk region in northwestern Saudi Arabia experienced a significant temperature drop, reaching sub-zero levels that caused water ponds and basins to freeze. This weather event is attributed to the polar wave affecting the area, a common occurrence during winter due to polar air masses from northern Europe. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has predicted continued cold conditions across multiple regions, including Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Hail, and parts of Madinah, with the possibility of frost in some areas.

Furthermore, an intense sandstorm impacted various locations in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh and Qassim. The NCM had warned of dust-stirring winds alongside low temperatures, leading to a gray haze that severely reduced visibility in Riyadh. This prompted local authorities to issue weather warnings urging motorists to proceed with caution while driving.

Additionally, a traffic incident involving a BMW occurred on Makkah road, further highlighting the hazardous conditions due to the sandstorm. Riyadh police responded swiftly to the scene to assist the involved parties. The General Directorate of Civil Defense recommended that residents refrain from visiting outskirt areas during the storm to mitigate the risk of accidents.

One Riyadh resident, Abdul Ghaffar, expressed disappointment, stating they had planned a family outing for a barbeque at Wadi Namar, but the sandstorm compelled them to stay indoors instead. This reflects the broader impact of severe weather events on residents’ daily lives, particularly during weekends.

The Tabuk region frequently encounters harsh winter cold due to polar air currents, which can lead to extreme weather fluctuations, such as freezing temperatures and frost. Similarly, periodic sandstorms are a characteristic feature of the Arabian Peninsula’s climate, especially during transitional weather patterns. The reliable forecasting by the National Center for Meteorology plays a crucial role in informing the public about such weather events and their potential impacts on safety and daily activities.

In summary, the Tabuk region faced intense cold and freezing conditions this past Friday, a natural consequence of polar waves. Concurrently, a significant sandstorm arose, causing low visibility and prompting local authorities to advise caution. The experience shared by residents, such as Mr. Abdul Ghaffar, underscores the disruptions caused by such weather phenomena, illustrating the importance of accurate weather predictions for public safety.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com