According to the المركز الوطني للأرصاد (National Center for Meteorology), Saudi Arabia faces volatile weather on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, marked by active winds, blowing dust, and high temperatures reaching up to 48°C in the Eastern Region. The weather system brings varied conditions across multiple parts of the kingdom, including thunderstorm activity and reduced horizontal visibility in coastal areas.
Active Winds and Dust Impacting Western and Northern Regions
Active winds generating dust and sand are affecting parts of Makkah, Madinah, and Tabuk, as reported by the National Center for Meteorology. The agency notes a sharp reduction in horizontal visibility specifically across the coastal areas of Tabuk. Meanwhile, maximum temperatures remain elevated across the Eastern Region as well as parts of Riyadh, Makkah, and Madinah.
Temperature Ranges Across Major Saudi Cities
Maximum temperatures across major cities range between 32°C and 48°C, while minimum temperatures span from 19°C to 35°C, according to the National Center for Meteorology. In Dammam, the temperature reaches a high of 48°C with a low of 33°C and 85% humidity under hazy and partly cloudy skies. Riyadh records 46°C maximum and 32°C minimum with 60% humidity, accompanied by thunderstorms, active winds, and stirred dust. Makkah registers 46°C and 34°C with 30% humidity, alongside active winds and dust. Madinah hits 46°C and 35°C with 20% humidity and partly cloudy conditions. Jeddah sees 41°C and 31°C with 70% humidity under partly cloudy skies, active winds, and dust.
Further south and in the highlands, Abha records a high of 32°C and a low of 19°C with 70% humidity, alongside thunderstorms and active winds. Al-Baha notes 31°C maximum and 20°C minimum with 50% humidity and similar thunderstorm activity. Jazan records 38°C and 31°C with 80% humidity, featuring thunderstorms, active winds, and dust. Najran marks 41°C and 27°C with 55% humidity and thunderstorm activity. Other regional readings include Buraydah at 46°C/30°C, Hail at 41°C/27°C, Taif at 38°C/27°C, Arar at 42°C/29°C, and Sakaka at 41°C/28°C.
Marine Advisories for the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
Over the Red Sea, the National Center for Meteorology forecasts northwesterly to westerly surface winds blowing at 12 to 35 km/h in the northern section. Winds across the central and southern parts reach 25 to 50 km/h, with potential higher gusts coinciding with southern thunderstorms. Wave heights range from half a meter to a meter in the north, and half a meter to two meters in the central and southern sectors, creating light conditions in the north and moderate to rough seas in the center and south.
In the Arabian Gulf, northwesterly to westerly surface winds move at 12 to 35 km/h across the northern section before shifting overnight to southeasterly to southwesterly winds in the northern and central areas, and southeasterly to westerly winds in the south. Wave heights range between half a meter and one meter, maintaining generally light sea conditions.
Did You Know?
Maximum temperatures across the kingdom’s major urban centers reach as high as 48°C in the Eastern Region, while high-altitude locations like Al-Baha and Abha experience maximums of 31°C and 32°C respectively, accompanied by contrasting humidity levels ranging from 15% in Buraydah to 85% in Dammam.
Residents in affected zones must monitor official advisories closely as maritime and terrestrial conditions shift rapidly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the highest temperatures expected during this weather system?
According to the National Center for Meteorology, maximum temperatures reach up to 48°C in the Eastern Region, specifically in Dammam, while cities like Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, and Buraydah peak at 46°C.
Which regions are experiencing thunderstorm activity and rainfall?
The National Center for Meteorology indicates that thunderstorms accompanied by active winds are occurring in Najran, Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and parts of Riyadh and the Eastern Region.
What safety precautions have officials issued for residents?
The National Center for Meteorology has urged all citizens and residents to monitor official updates and adhere strictly to safety warnings issued regarding regions impacted by active winds, dust, and thunderstorms.
How are local communities in your area preparing for these high temperatures and shifting coastal wind patterns?