Tabuk snowstorm highlights winter weather concerns across Saudi Arabia

As Saudi Arabia braces for further rain and thunderstorms until Friday, authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines.

The General Directorate of Civil Defense has issued warnings, advising people to avoid flood-prone areas and to stay updated on instructions communicated through various media outlets.

The Makkah region is expected to experience moderate to heavy rain, hail, and strong winds, affecting areas such as Qunfudah and Laith.

Similar weather forecasts have been issued for Riyadh, Al-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Shaqra, Al-Majma’ah, Rumah, Hail, Al-Qassim, Asir, the Northern Borders, and the Eastern Province.

In the Makkah region, including Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al-Ardiyat, Tarabah, Al-Muwayh, Al-Khurma, and Raniyah, as well as the regions of Al-Jawf, Al-Qassim, the Eastern Province, Al-Baha, and Jazan, moderate rain, strong winds, and dust are anticipated.

Similar weather conditions are expected in parts of Riyadh, including Thadiq, Marat, Al-Muzahmiyah, Al-Hariq, Hotat Bani Tamim, Al-Kharj, Darma, Al-Diriyah, Huraymila, Afif, Al-Dawadmi, Al-Quwayiyah, and the regions of Madinah, Hail, the Northern Borders, and the Eastern Province.

Jawaher Al-Ghamdi from Jeddah said: “I always make sure to stay updated on the weather advisories provided by the authorities. Living in Jeddah, where rain and storms can be unpredictable, it’s crucial to exercise caution as our cars are always subject to loss. I avoid flood-prone areas and follow the Civil Defense guidelines.

“Safety comes first, and staying informed helps us navigate these weather challenges wisely.”

Abdulaziz Omar from Riyadh said: “With the recent weather forecast for Riyadh and its surrounding areas, I make it a point to follow the authorities’ instructions closely. The mention of moderate to heavy rain and strong winds is a reminder to take precautions. I stay indoors when needed, especially in areas prone to water pooling.”

A snowstorm hit the Tabuk region on Dec. 28. Tabuk experienced its third snowfall, enveloping Saudi Arabia’s Jabal Al-Lawz mountain in white.

With temperatures dropping significantly overnight, the sudden polar wave resulted in heavy snowfall, transforming the mountainous area into a picturesque white canvas.

Jabal Al-Lawz, standing at 2,580 meters above sea level, witnessed enthusiastic residents, both adults and children, enjoying the unusual snowfall.

Musheer Al-Balawi, popularly known as “Marshall” on social media and a photography enthusiast from Jeddah, captured stunning scenes of the snow-covered Almond Mountain against the region’s colossal red mountains.

He told Arab News: “Despite the temperature dropping below 5 degrees Celsius, the beauty of the snow compelled me and my colleagues to venture into the snowy Tabuk desert. I captured breathtaking scenes of the Almond Mountain covered in white.”

“The snow lasted only one day, after which it melted, and we experienced a wave of rain and cold weather.”

The occurrence serves as a reminder of the diverse weather challenges faced by different regions in Saudi Arabia.

Tabuk is expected to witness another snowfall of the season, adding to the unique weather patterns across the country.

Residents have been advised to stay informed and prioritize safety during unpredictable weather conditions.