Saudi NCM Forecasts Cold Weather and Winds for Thursday

Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued its official weather forecast for Thursday, projecting cold to very cold conditions across the northern regions of Tabuk, Hail, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders, while dust-stirring winds are expected to affect parts of Tabuk, Madinah, Makkah, the Eastern Region, and Riyadh. The bulletin, released through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), represents the Kingdom’s authoritative daily guidance for residents, travelers, and key economic sectors operating across its vast and geographically diverse territory, from the northern highlands to the Red Sea coast and the Arabian Gulf. Have you ever considered how a single weather bulletin can shape the daily rhythm of an entire nation?

The forecast also indicates partly cloudy to cloudy skies over parts of Najran, Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha, with fog potentially forming during the night and early morning hours in these southwestern regions. Over the Red Sea, winds will be northeasterly to northerly, reaching speeds of 25 to 50 kilometers per hour in the northern and central parts, and northerly to northwesterly at 12 to 30 kilometers per hour in the southern part, with waves ranging from half a meter to two and a half meters and sea conditions calm to choppy. In the Arabian Gulf, northerly to northwesterly winds at 25 to 50 kilometers per hour are expected, with waves reaching one and a half to two and a half meters.

Context and Background

Why does the National Center for Meteorology’s daily bulletin carry such weight across the Kingdom? Established as the official authority for weather monitoring and forecasting in Saudi Arabia, the NCM operates a sophisticated network of meteorological stations, radar systems, and satellite feeds that track atmospheric conditions across a landmass exceeding two million square kilometers. Its forecasts, disseminated through the Saudi Press Agency and official digital channels, serve as the primary reference for government agencies, emergency services, aviation authorities, and the general public. The center’s role has grown considerably as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transformation accelerates, bringing more outdoor events, tourism activity, and infrastructure projects that depend on accurate weather intelligence.

Thursday’s forecast reflects the typical winter pattern across the Arabian Peninsula, when cold air masses from the north descend over the northern regions while the southwestern highlands experience moisture-laden cloud cover. The contrast between the cold, dry conditions in Tabuk and the Northern Borders and the cloudy, fog-prone weather in Jazan and Aseer illustrates the Kingdom’s remarkable climatic diversity. This diversity is precisely why the NCM maintains region-specific forecasts rather than a single national summary, ensuring that farmers in Al-Jouf, fishermen on the Red Sea, and commuters in Riyadh each receive information relevant to their circumstances.

The timing of this bulletin is significant. January typically brings some of the coldest temperatures of the year to northern Saudi Arabia, and the NCM’s warning of very cold conditions in Tabuk, Hail, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders aligns with seasonal expectations. For residents of these regions, the forecast is a practical signal to prepare for low temperatures, while for authorities it informs decisions ranging from road safety protocols to the provision of heating support for vulnerable communities.

Key Details of the Thursday Forecast

What exactly should residents and travelers expect on Thursday? In the northern regions of Tabuk, Hail, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders, temperatures are forecast to be cold to very cold, a pattern that can affect daily life, agriculture, and outdoor work. Dust-stirring winds are expected in parts of Tabuk, Madinah, Makkah, the Eastern Region, and Riyadh, which may reduce visibility and air quality in affected areas. These winds are a common feature of the Saudi winter and are monitored closely by health and transport authorities.

In the southwest, parts of Najran, Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha will see partly cloudy to cloudy skies, with fog possible during the night and early morning hours. Fog in these mountainous regions can be dense and persistent, particularly along high-altitude roads, and the NCM’s early warning gives drivers and local authorities valuable time to take precautions. The combination of cloud cover and fog also has implications for agriculture in a region known for its terraced farms and coffee cultivation.

Maritime conditions are equally detailed in the bulletin. Over the Red Sea, northeasterly to northerly winds of 25 to 50 kilometers per hour are expected in the northern and central parts, while the southern part will see northerly to northwesterly winds of 12 to 30 kilometers per hour. Wave heights will range from half a meter to two and a half meters, with sea conditions described as calm to choppy. In the Arabian Gulf, northerly to northwesterly winds of 25 to 50 kilometers per hour will produce waves of one and a half to two and a half meters, also with calm to choppy conditions. These details are essential for the Kingdom’s shipping, fishing, and offshore energy sectors.

International and Regional Impact

How does Saudi Arabia’s weather forecast resonate beyond its borders? The Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf are among the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors, carrying a substantial share of global trade and energy shipments. The NCM’s wind and wave forecasts for these waters are monitored not only by Saudi vessels but also by international shipping companies, regional navies, and port authorities in neighboring countries. When the NCM reports choppy conditions and winds reaching 50 kilometers per hour, it contributes to a broader regional safety picture that helps prevent accidents and delays.

Regional weather patterns also connect Saudi Arabia with its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) neighbors. Cold fronts affecting Tabuk and the Northern Borders often extend into Jordan and Iraq, while the cloud systems over Jazan and Aseer are linked to atmospheric dynamics over the southern Red Sea and the Horn of Africa. By publishing its forecasts through the Saudi Press Agency, the Kingdom provides transparent, timely information that supports coordination with international meteorological organizations and enhances its reputation as a responsible global stakeholder.

For the millions of pilgrims and visitors who travel to Makkah and Madinah throughout the year, the forecast carries particular relevance. Dust-stirring winds in these holy cities can affect outdoor activities and the comfort of worshippers, while the NCM’s guidance helps authorities manage crowds and ensure safety. The Kingdom’s commitment to hosting pilgrims in optimal conditions is part of its broader dedication to service and hospitality.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Why does accurate weather forecasting matter so much to Saudi Arabia’s economy? As the Kingdom pursues Vision 2030 and diversifies away from oil dependence, sectors such as tourism, entertainment, logistics, and renewable energy are becoming increasingly important. Each of these sectors is weather-sensitive. Outdoor concerts and sporting events, desert tourism, Red Sea resorts, and solar power installations all rely on reliable forecasts to operate efficiently and safely. The NCM’s daily bulletins are therefore not merely public information but a strategic economic tool.

Agriculture, too, depends on the forecast. In regions like Al-Jouf, known for its olive groves, and Jazan, famous for its coffee and tropical fruits, farmers use NCM data to plan irrigation, protect crops from cold or fog, and schedule harvests. The Saudi government has invested heavily in modernizing agricultural practices, and access to precise meteorological information is a key component of that effort. Similarly, the fishing industry along both coasts relies on wind and wave forecasts to ensure safe and productive operations.

From an infrastructure perspective, the forecast supports the smooth functioning of major projects, including those in NEOM and the Red Sea Project. Construction schedules, crane operations, and maritime logistics can all be affected by high winds and rough seas. By providing detailed, region-specific forecasts, the NCM helps project managers make informed decisions that keep development on track and workers safe.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does a daily weather bulletin connect to Saudi Arabia’s long-term vision? Vision 2030 aims to build a diversified, sustainable, and globally connected economy, and a resilient society. Accurate weather forecasting is an essential enabler of that vision. It supports the growth of tourism by helping visitors plan their trips, protects lives and property during extreme weather, and enhances the efficiency of key industries. The National Center for Meteorology’s work is a concrete example of how the Kingdom is harnessing science and technology to improve quality of life and drive economic progress.

As Saudi Arabia continues to open up to the world, hosting international events, welcoming millions of tourists, and expanding its maritime trade, the importance of reliable meteorological services will only grow. The NCM’s investment in advanced forecasting technologies and its transparent communication through official channels reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to excellence and safety. Thursday’s forecast, with its detailed regional breakdown, is a small but meaningful illustration of how Vision 2030 is being implemented day by day, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can navigate the Kingdom’s diverse climate with confidence and ease.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the source of the weather forecast for Thursday?

A1. The forecast was issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) and published through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Kingdom’s official news agency.

Q2. Which regions are expected to experience cold to very cold weather?

A2. Tabuk, Hail, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders regions are forecast to be cold to very cold on Thursday, according to the NCM bulletin.

Q3. Where will dust-stirring winds occur?

A3. Dust-stirring winds are expected in parts of Tabuk, Madinah, Makkah, the Eastern Region, and Riyadh, which may reduce visibility in affected areas.

Q4. What kind of sky conditions are forecast for Najran, Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha?

A4. These regions will see partly cloudy to cloudy skies, with fog potentially forming during the night and early morning hours.

Q5. What are the expected wind speeds over the Red Sea?

A5. Winds over the Red Sea will be northeasterly to northerly at 25-50 km/h in the northern and central parts, and northerly to northwesterly at 12-30 km/h in the south.

Q6. What wave heights are expected on the Red Sea?

A6. Waves on the Red Sea may range from half a meter to two and a half meters, with sea conditions described as calm to choppy.

Q7. What are the wind conditions forecast for the Arabian Gulf?

A7. The Arabian Gulf will experience northerly to northwesterly winds at speeds of 25-50 km/h, with waves reaching one and a half to two and a half meters.

Q8. How does the NCM ensure accurate forecasts?

A8. The NCM operates a network of meteorological stations, radar systems, and satellite feeds to monitor atmospheric conditions across Saudi Arabia and produce region-specific forecasts.

Q9. Why is the weather forecast important for pilgrims?

A9. The forecast helps authorities manage crowds and ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah, especially during dust-stirring winds or fog.

Q10. What impact do dust-stirring winds have on daily life?

A10. Dust-stirring winds can reduce visibility and air quality, affecting road safety and respiratory health, prompting authorities to advise precautions.

Q11. How does the forecast support the agricultural sector?

A11. Farmers in regions like Al-Jouf and Jazan use NCM data to plan irrigation, protect crops from cold or fog, and schedule harvests effectively.

Q12. What is the significance of the Red Sea forecast for international trade?

A12. The Red Sea is a vital maritime corridor; accurate wind and wave forecasts help ensure the safety of international shipping and energy shipments.

Q13. How does the NCM communicate its forecasts to the public?

A13. The NCM releases forecasts through the Saudi Press Agency and its official digital channels, ensuring wide and timely dissemination.

Q14. What role does weather forecasting play in Vision 2030?

A14. Accurate forecasting supports tourism, entertainment, logistics, and renewable energy sectors, all of which are key to Vision 2030’s economic diversification goals.

Q15. Are there any specific warnings for drivers in foggy areas?

A15. The NCM advises drivers in Najran, Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha to exercise caution during foggy conditions, particularly on high-altitude roads.

Q16. How does the forecast benefit the fishing industry?

A16. Fishermen rely on wind and wave forecasts to plan safe and productive trips, avoiding hazardous conditions on both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.

Q17. What is the typical winter weather pattern in Saudi Arabia?

A17. Winter brings cold air masses to northern regions and moisture-laden clouds to the southwest, creating diverse conditions across the Kingdom.

Q18. How does the NCM support major projects like NEOM?

A18. Detailed forecasts help project managers schedule construction, crane operations, and maritime logistics safely, keeping development on track.

Q19. What should residents in cold regions do to prepare?

A19. Residents in Tabuk, Hail, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders should prepare for low temperatures by using heating and wearing warm clothing.

Q20. Where can the public access the full weather forecast?

A20. The full forecast is available through the Saudi Press Agency and the National Center for Meteorology’s official channels, providing authoritative and timely information.

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