Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The desert region of Al-Jawf in northern Saudi Arabia witnessed an unprecedented weather phenomenon as snowfall blanketed its arid landscape for the first time in recorded history. The rare snowfall turned the dry desert into a stunning white expanse, a stark contrast to its usual sandy terrain.
According to the Saudi Press Agency on Thursday, November 7, a blanket of snow has covered the northern region of Saudi Arabia, particularly Al-Jawf, turning the typically arid desert white since November 1.
Al-Jawf, a region known for its dry, desert landscape, experienced heavy rain and hailstorms this week, transforming its sandy terrain into a snowy expanse. The Khaleej Times reported that the extreme weather brings in an early winter, extending even to the mountainous areas of Saudi Arabia.
The sight of snow in the Al-Jawf desert quickly went viral, captivating social media users on X. Videos shared online showed a surreal scene of snow-covered desert, evoking both awe and astonishment among viewers worldwide.
Unusual Snowfall in Saudi Arabia
While snow is not entirely unheard of in Saudi Arabia, it is typically confined to the higher altitudes of the northern provinces, such as Tabuk. Located over 1,000 kilometers from the holy city of Mecca, the mountains of Tabuk, including Mount Al-Lawz, occasionally experience snowfall during the winter months.
Other northern regions, such as the Northern Borders Province which includes cities like Arar, Turaif, Hazm Al-Jalamid, and Al-Qurayyat have also reported snowfall. However, this recent weather event marks the first time that the desert plains of Al-Jawf have been coated in snow.
Climate Change Implications
Beyond the striking visuals of snow-covered sand dunes, experts are pointing to a more ominous underlying cause: climate change. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) in the UAE suggests that the unusual snowfall in Al-Jawf is linked to a low-pressure system originating from the Arabian Sea, extending through Oman. This system has carried moisture-laden air into typically arid regions, resulting in dramatic shifts in weather patterns.
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As a result, thunderstorms, hail and heavy rain hit Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, causing an unprecedented weather event. These extreme weather events have led to widespread disruptions, prompting Saudi meteorological authorities to issue warnings for the coming days.
Saudi Arabia Issues Weather Warnings
The Saudi Weather Department has issued alerts for prolonged extreme weather conditions, including thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds. Authorities have warned residents to prepare for reduced visibility, potential travel disruptions, and other impacts on daily life. Citizens are urged to exercise caution, follow safety guidelines, and take preventive measures as the country braces for ongoing adverse weather.
While the sight of snow in the desert may be enchanting, it serves as a stark reminder of the changing global climate and its unpredictable consequences.
(Raidi/Agung)
