The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued its weather forecast for Monday, July 20, 2026, predicting rising temperatures and dust-stirring winds across several regions of Saudi Arabia. The Eastern, Makkah, and Madinah regions will experience higher temperatures, while parts of Riyadh, Najran, Aseer, and Al-Baha will see dust-stirring winds, according to the official report from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Context and Background
Saudi Arabia’s diverse climate ranges from arid deserts to coastal regions, making accurate weather forecasting essential for daily life and economic activities. The National Center for Meteorology, the Kingdom’s authoritative weather agency, provides regular updates to ensure public safety and operational efficiency across sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and tourism.
Key Details
The NCM forecast indicates that winds over the Red Sea will be southwesterly to northwesterly at speeds of 10-28 km/h in the northern part, and northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 25-55 km/h in the central and southern parts. Waves will range from half a meter to two and a half meters, with sea conditions described as calm to choppy.
In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 15-40 km/h in the northern part, and southwesterly to westerly at speeds of 10-30 km/h in the central and southern parts. Waves will range from half a meter to one and a half meters, with the sea remaining relatively calm.
Implications and Impact
The weather conditions are expected to impact maritime activities, including shipping and fishing, particularly in the Red Sea where higher wind speeds are forecast. Residents and travelers in affected regions are advised to take precautions against dust and high temperatures, which can affect visibility and health.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The Kingdom’s commitment to advanced meteorological services aligns with Vision 2030 goals to enhance quality of life and economic resilience. By investing in cutting-edge weather technology and infrastructure, Saudi Arabia ensures the safety and well-being of its citizens and visitors, supporting sustainable development across all sectors.
20 Questions
Q1. What regions will experience rising temperatures on Monday?
A1. The Eastern, Makkah, and Madinah regions will see higher temperatures, according to the National Center for Meteorology.
Q2. Which areas will be affected by dust-stirring winds?
A2. Parts of Riyadh, Najran, Aseer, and Al-Baha regions will experience dust-stirring winds.
Q3. What are the expected wind speeds in the northern Red Sea?
A3. Winds will be southwesterly to northwesterly at speeds of 10-28 km/h in the northern Red Sea.
Q4. How fast will the winds be in the central and southern Red Sea?
A4. Winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 25-55 km/h in these areas.
Q5. What will the wave heights be in the Red Sea?
A5. Waves will range from half a meter to two and a half meters.
Q6. What are the sea conditions expected in the Red Sea?
A6. The sea will be calm to choppy.
Q7. What wind directions are forecast for the Arabian Gulf?
A7. Winds will be northwesterly to westerly in the northern part and southwesterly to westerly in the central and southern parts.
Q8. What are the wind speeds in the northern Arabian Gulf?
A8. Winds will blow at 15-40 km/h in the northern Arabian Gulf.
Q9. How fast will the winds be in the central and southern Arabian Gulf?
A9. Winds will reach speeds of 10-30 km/h in these regions.
Q10. What will the wave heights be in the Arabian Gulf?
A10. Waves will range from half a meter to one and a half meters.
Q11. What are the sea conditions expected in the Arabian Gulf?
A11. The sea will be relatively calm.
Q12. Who issued the weather forecast?
A12. The forecast was issued by Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology.
Q13. Why is accurate weather forecasting important for Saudi Arabia?
A13. Accurate forecasts are vital for public safety and sectors like transportation, agriculture, and tourism.
Q14. How does the weather impact maritime activities?
A14. Higher winds and waves can affect shipping, fishing, and other sea-based operations.
Q15. What precautions should residents take during dust storms?
A15. Residents should limit outdoor exposure, wear masks, and ensure proper hydration.
Q16. How does Saudi Arabia’s climate vary?
A16. The Kingdom features arid deserts, coastal regions, and mountainous areas with diverse weather patterns.
Q17. What role does the NCM play in Saudi Arabia?
A17. The NCM provides authoritative weather data to support national safety and economic activities.
Q18. How does weather forecasting support Vision 2030?
A18. Advanced meteorological services enhance quality of life and economic resilience, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.
Q19. What technologies does Saudi Arabia use for weather forecasting?
A19. The Kingdom employs cutting-edge satellite, radar, and modeling technologies for accurate forecasts.
Q20. Where can the public access official weather updates?
A20. Updates are available through the NCM’s official channels and the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Reader Feedback
We value your thoughts. Please share your feedback on this article.
Your feedback helps us improve our coverage.