Snowfall Graces Northern Saudi Arabia After Three Decades

Post by : Mara Rahim

In an extraordinary meteorological event, residents in Saudi Arabia woke up to snowfall in the northern regions on Monday, marking over 30 years since the last occurrence. The snowfall, particularly near the Tuwaiq mountain range to the west of Riyadh, sparked excitement among locals.

Known for its scorching deserts, the sight of white snow blanketing the area took many residents by surprise. Crowds gathered to witness the mesmerizing landscape, while videos circulated on social media showcasing families and young people relishing the moment close to the capital.

Climate experts attribute this rare weather phenomenon to climate change, which has been causing unpredictable weather across the globe. The cold spell transformed segments of the region into a fleeting winter wonderland.

Meteorologists noted that while snowfall and hail are uncommon, they can occur in elevated areas like Tabuk in winter when cold air meets moisture. Such weather patterns, although infrequent, can emerge under certain atmospheric conditions.

Climate scientists emphasize that global warming is linked to increasing extreme weather events, resulting in abrupt cold spells and substantial rainfall in typically warm areas, including Saudi Arabia.

The National Meteorological Centre previously cautioned residents about a significant drop in temperatures in northern provinces, urging vigilance. Recently, the Trojena highlands in the Tabuk region also witnessed unexpected snowfall, further highlighting these uncharacteristic winter trends.