A severe cold wave is set to sweep across Saudi Arabia this weekend, with the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) predicting temperatures as low as -3°C in some regions. The cold spell, expected to last from Sunday, December 15, through Tuesday, December 17, will impact large parts of the country, including northern and central areas.
Northern and central regions to bear the brunt
Hussain Al Qahtani, spokesperson for the NCM, stated that the cold air mass will primarily affect regions like Tabuk, Al Jawf, Northern Borders, Hail, and the northern parts of the Eastern Province. These areas are forecast to endure temperatures ranging from 0°C to -3°C during the cold wave.
Strong winds, dust storms to accompany the cold snap
The cold front will not only bring frigid temperatures but also strong winds, leading to widespread dust storms. Mecca and Medina, including their coastal regions, are expected to experience reduced visibility due to dust, particularly on Sunday and Monday.
Cold wave spreads to southern regions
By Monday and Tuesday, the cold weather will extend further south, reaching areas like Al Qassim, Riyadh, and the southern parts of the Eastern Province. In these regions, temperatures are expected to drop to between 2°C and 5°C. Dusty conditions and strong winds are likely to persist, exacerbating the impact of the cold snap.
Public urged to take precautions
Authorities have urged residents to stay informed through regular weather updates and to take necessary precautions against the extreme weather. The NCM has advised people to limit outdoor activities during peak dust storm conditions and to dress warmly to protect against the cold.
As the Kingdom braces for this unusual weather event, residents are reminded to remain vigilant, especially in areas most affected by the cold wave and accompanying dust storms.