A sandstorm swept through Riyadh and its outskirts on Thursday, stirring dust and sand into the sky, causing reduced visibility across the region.
Meanwhile, meteorologists forecast moderate to heavy rainfall in several areas of the Kingdom.
The Saudi Road Safety Authority and the Traffic Safety Administration issued warnings to drivers, urging caution due to the reduced visibility caused by the dust storm.
Additionally, the General Directorate of Civil Defense advised citizens to avoid sandy areas to prevent accidents during the storm and urged adherence to weather-related safety guidelines across the Kingdom.
Nationwide Sandstorm and Rainfall Forecast
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) also warned of widespread sandstorms expected in multiple regions of Saudi Arabia.
On Thursday, the NCM forecasted strong winds carrying dust and sand along with moderate to heavy rainfall and hail showers over parts of:
Al Baha
Makkah
Madinah
Hail
Qassim
Riyadh
Al Jouf
The Eastern and Northern regions
Additionally, rain and snowfall are expected over parts of Jazan, Asir, and Tabuk.
Weather Conditions in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
Red Sea: Winds will be northwesterly to northerly at 15-50 km/h in the northern and central parts, and southwesterly to southeasterly at 20-42 km/h in the southern part.
Wave heights will range from 0.5 meters to over 2 meters, and the Red Sea is expected to be calm to rough.
Arabian Gulf: Winds will be easterly to northeasterly, with speeds ranging between 20-50 km/h.
Wave heights will vary from 1 meter to over 2 meters, and sea conditions will be relatively calm to rough.
Authorities have urged residents and travelers to stay informed and take necessary precautions amid the adverse weather conditions.
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