Parts of Saudi Arabia covered with snow after hailstorm

Friday, February 16, 2024

The Middle East has been experiencing a remarkable weather phenomenon this week, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) enduring an intense hailstorm, followed by Oman being battered by torrential rains that caused such severe flooding the government declared a national holiday.

Adding to this meteorological spectacle, parts of Saudi Arabia have now been covered in a layer of snow, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland on Thursday, February 15.

In Saudi Arabia, the temperature took a significant dive as heavy rains pelted the mountainous regions of Jabal Al Lawz, subsequently giving way to a light snowfall that has captivated both residents and visitors. Snowfall in the desert regions is always a source of fascination, often generating viral videos and widespread awe, yet for the Tabuk region, this wintry blanket is not uncommon. Situated at an elevation of 2,600 meters, the area is known for its almond bushes and regularly attracts tourists eager to experience its cooler climate and unique snowy scenery.

The Saudi Press Agency has forecasted “moderate to heavy thunderstorms” for various regions including Al-Baha, Makkah, Al-Qassim, Riyadh, and Sharqiya, alongside predictions of thunderstorms in Madinah, Tabuk, Al Jawf, the northern border, and the eastern region. This diverse weather activity across the Gulf region underscores the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the Middle East’s climate, challenging the stereotype of it being a perpetually hot and dry landscape.

This week’s weather events, from hail in the UAE, floods in Oman, to snow in Saudi Arabia, highlight the region’s susceptibility to a range of weather phenomena. The snowfall in Saudi Arabia, in particular, serves as a reminder of the natural beauty and surprises our planet can offer, bringing together communities to marvel at the unexpected and share in the wonder of a desert region blanketed in snow.

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