Thunderstorms, hail forecast for western Saudi Arabia as dust-stirring winds reduce visibility

JEDDAH — Thunderstorms accompanied by hail, gusty conditions and dust-stirring winds are forecast across western parts of the Kingdom, according to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM). The dust-stirring winds will affect parts of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Najran, and Makkah regions, causing near-zero horizontal visibility along the coastal road leading to Jazan and in the eastern parts of the Najran Region. Moderate to heavy thunderstorms are also expected to affect parts of Asir, Jazan, Al-Baha adn the highlands of Makkah until the end week. City forecasts show Makkah and Dammam are expected to record the highest temperatures among the major cities at 45°C, while Riyadh is forecast to reach 43°C with active winds. Abha is expected to be the coolest major city listed, with a high of 29°C and thunderstorms accompanied by active winds, while Jazan is forecast to experience thunderstorms, active winds, and raised dust. Over the Red Sea, northwesterly to westerly winds are expected across the northern and central parts at speeds of 12–35 km/h, while westerly to southwesterly winds will prevail over the southern part at speeds of 15–50 km/h. Waves are forecast to range from 0.5 meters to more than 2 meters, with sea conditions varying from calm to choppy. In the Arabian Gulf, northwesterly to westerly winds will blow across the northern part at speeds of 15–35 km/h, while northeasterly to easterly winds, shifting to northerly in the evening, are expected over the central and southern parts at speeds of 10–25 km/h. Waves will range from 0.5 meters to 1.5 meters, and the sea will be relatively calm.