Riyadh Sandstorm Hits as Saudi Arabia Warns of Storms

Riyadh Hit by Heavy Sandstorm

A thick layer of dust covered Riyadh and surrounding areas on Friday as strong winds created difficult weather conditions across the Saudi capital. The sandstorm significantly reduced visibility on roads, raising concerns for motorists and residents.

Authorities Warn of Dangerous Visibility

Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology warned that the Riyadh region could experience dust, strong winds and near-zero horizontal visibility. Road safety authorities and Saudi Highway Security urged drivers to reduce speed and remain extremely cautious while travelling through affected areas.

Civil Defense Issues Safety Advice

The General Directorate of Civil Defense advised residents to avoid sandy and exposed locations during the weekend because of the hazardous weather. Authorities also urged people to follow official safety instructions as weather conditions develop across different parts of the Kingdom.

Rain and Thunderstorms Forecast

The weather situation is not limited to Riyadh. Moderate to heavy rain accompanied by possible hail was forecast in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha and Makkah regions. Light to moderate rainfall was also expected in parts of Najran, Riyadh and Madinah.

Dusty Winds Expected Across Saudi Arabia

The weather service also warned of widespread dust storms in several areas. Dust-raising winds were expected across parts of Riyadh, the Eastern Region, Qassim and Tabuk, potentially creating further travel difficulties and reducing visibility.

Strong Winds Over Red Sea and Arabian Gulf

Winds over the Red Sea were forecast to reach speeds of up to 50 km/h in some southern areas, while winds over the Arabian Gulf were expected to reach up to 30 km/h in northern and central sections. The changing wind conditions could contribute to dust and rough weather in affected areas.

Saudi Arabia experienced a significant weather disturbance as a sandstorm swept across Riyadh and its outskirts, covering the skyline with thick dust and sharply reducing visibility on roads. The National Center for Meteorology warned that strong winds and dust could continue to affect Riyadh and other parts of the Kingdom. Authorities asked motorists to exercise caution because visibility in some areas could fall to dangerously low levels. The General Directorate of Civil Defense also advised residents to avoid sandy locations and follow official instructions.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia was preparing for a wider mix of weather conditions. Forecasts indicated moderate to heavy rain and possible hail in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha and Makkah. Light to moderate rain was also expected in Najran, Riyadh and Madinah. Dust-raising winds were forecast across several other regions, including the Eastern Region, Qassim and Tabuk.

The weather alert highlights the rapidly changing conditions across Saudi Arabia, where strong winds can transport large amounts of dust and affect road safety and visibility. Authorities are urging residents and travellers to monitor official weather updates before travelling, particularly in areas affected by sandstorms, thunderstorms or heavy rain.