Desert in Saudi Arabia turns white after first snowfall in history
The Al-Jawf province in Saudi Arabia reportedly experienced snowfall for the first time in history, transforming the desert landscape into a winter scene.
According to The Economic Times, the snowfall was caused by a weather pattern that brought heavy rain and hail.
Since the country is known for its arid climate, the recent snowfall is an unexpected occurrence that has garnered considerable attention.
Pictures and footage of the rare phenomenon posted on Sunday (3 Nov) showed icy roads and snow blanketing the sand dunes.
The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) confirmed that the snowfall started as early as 1 Nov.
This followed the heavy rain and “large amounts of hail” that arrived in parts of Al-Jawf since earlier last week.
Region to expect more severe weather
Local officials suggested that the event could lead to a vibrant spring.
However, the Saudi weather department has also issued warnings of more severe weather in the coming days. Thunderstorms, heavy rain, hail, and strong winds are expected, which may disrupt travel and reduce visibility.
“There were still opportunities for thunderstorms with rain to develop over most of the governorates in Al-Jawf,” said Saudi’s National Center for Meteorology.
Experts revealed that the rare phenomenon was the result of low-pressure systems from the Arabian Sea, which are bringing more rain than usual to the typically dry region.
Locals get to witness their first winter wonderland
The snowfall in Al-Jawf marked a rare and unprecedented event in Saudi Arabia’s weather history.
However, Saudi Arabia is not the only country that experienced cold weather in the Middle East during the autumn.
Back in October, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) encountered similar conditions that included thunderstorms, and the possibility of hail, according to Express.
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