Residents in northern Saudi Arabia were taken aback on Monday morning as they witnessed rare snowfall, a phenomenon not seen in over three decades. This extraordinary event unfolded near the Tuwaiq mountain range, to the west of Riyadh, bringing joy and astonishment to the locals.
Known for its arid desert scenery and scorching temperatures, Saudi Arabia presented an unexpected winter landscape. Crowds gathered to savor the moment, as videos circulated online showcasing children and young adults reveling in the fleeting snowfall near the capital.
Experts attribute this unusual occurrence to climate change, which is disrupting traditional weather patterns globally. Temperatures plummeting transformed some areas into a winter wonderland.
Meteorologists clarified that while snowfall is rare, it can arise in higher regions like Tabuk during winter when icy air meets moisture. These specific conditions may lead to snowfall despite overall rarity.
Climate specialists emphasize that global warming is contributing to increased extreme weather, resulting in unexpected cold spells and heavy rain even in typically hot countries such as Saudi Arabia.
The National Meteorological Centre had previously issued alerts regarding significant temperature drops in the northern regions, urging the public to exercise caution. Moreover, unexpected snowfall was also reported in the Trojena highlands of Tabuk last week, further exemplifying the strange winter weather.
