Severe Weather Alert: Snow and Storms Predicted in Northern Saudi Arabia

Post by : Mara Rahim

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia has issued a warning of imminent snowfall this Thursday in the northern regions, including Qassim and the elevated areas of Tabuk and Hail, affected by a potent weather system. This alert follows several days of cautions, with Qassim now placed under a red alert due to forecasts of heavy rain and flash floods.

Forecasts indicate that temperatures in high-altitude areas could plunge below zero degrees Celsius, fostering favorable conditions for snow, coupled with thunderstorms, hail, and vigorous winds. Meteorologists note that while this snowfall grabs public attention, it is a common occurrence throughout the winter.

Saudi astronomer Mohammed bin Reddah Al Thaqafi, a member of the Arab Union for Space and Astronomy Sciences, elaborated that the northern regions of Saudi Arabia see snowfall intermittently each winter, with its occurrence varying based on climatic and atmospheric factors. Typically, snowfall happens from December to February, particularly in areas such as Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and Arar that are influenced by Mediterranean weather patterns.

The scientist highlighted several areas likely to receive snow this winter, including Jabal Al Lawz, Alaqan, and Al Dhahr in Tabuk; Sakaka and Dumat Al Jandal in Al-Jouf; Arar in the Northern Borders; Jabal Aja and Jabal Salma in Hail; as well as the highlands in Abha, Asir. While snow levels may vary each year, these spots are generally reliable for experiencing winter conditions.

He advised drivers and outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution during snowy conditions, alerting them to the risks of slippery roads and limited visibility. It’s essential to adhere to traffic regulations to avoid incidents. Snowfall has already been reported at Jabal Al-Lawz in Tabuk, with the mountainous landscape now painted white.

The National Center for Meteorology anticipates the likelihood of snow and volatile weather to persist from early afternoon into the evening hours. Additionally, moderate to heavy thunderstorms, capable of causing flash floods alongside hail and powerful winds, are forecast across various locales. NCM spokesman Hussein Al Qahtani reassured that the center is vigilantly monitoring the situation and deemed social media claims of extensive flooding in Riyadh as untrue. He urged the public to consult official meteorological sources as unstable weather continues to impact the Kingdom.