The National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) in Saudi Arabia has issued a stark warning for residents across the northern and central parts of the Kingdom. A significant cold wave is forecast to sweep through multiple regions, leading to a dramatic and sharp decline in temperatures starting this Saturday.
Regions on High Alert for Freezing Conditions
The meteorological authority has confirmed that the intense cold spell will persist from Saturday through Tuesday. The impact is expected to be most severe in several key administrative areas. Citizens in Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Tabuk, Hail, Al-Qassim, Riyadh, and the northern parts of the Eastern Province should prepare for the harshest conditions.
According to the NCM's detailed forecast, minimum temperatures in these affected zones are predicted to hover between 2 degrees Celsius and a chilling minus 2 degrees Celsius. This indicates that several locations will experience below-freezing conditions, a notable weather event for the region. The centre has stressed that this will not be a minor chill but a marked and noticeable drop in the mercury levels.
Urgent Calls for Preparedness and Vigilance
In light of the severe forecast, authorities have urgently appealed to both the public and relevant agencies. The primary advice is to closely monitor official weather updates from the NCM in the coming days. Furthermore, everyone is encouraged to take all necessary precautions to safeguard themselves, their families, and their property from the unusually cold weather.
This sudden cold spell is part of a broader pattern of unpredictable and extreme temperature fluctuations being observed in Saudi Arabia. It underscores the increasing importance of public awareness and proactive preparation to effectively deal with such extreme weather phenomena, which can pose health and safety risks.
What This Means for Residents
The impending weather shift calls for immediate action. Residents in the listed regions are advised to:
- Ensure adequate heating arrangements are in place and safe to use.
- Check on vulnerable community members, including the elderly.
- Protect water pipes and sensitive vegetation from frost damage.
- Dress in warm, layered clothing when venturing outdoors.
Staying informed through official channels remains the best defence against the challenges posed by this incoming cold wave.
