In a historic weather event, Saudi Arabia's Al-Jawf region has experienced snowfall for the first time on record, turning its typically dry desert landscape into a stunning winter scene.
This rare phenomenon follows intense rain and hailstorms that recently swept through the Kingdom.
As reported by the Khaleej Times, heavy rains and substantial hailstorms struck the region, setting the stage for a cold front that resulted in snowfall across its mountainous areas.
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Social media has since been flooded with breathtaking photos and videos of snow blanketing the desert, as residents and visitors share the remarkable sight.
Northern Saudi Arabia: Snow blankets the desert after heavy rains and hail. Just yesterday, winter transformed the mountainous landscape.🇸🇦
— Global Dissident (@GlobalDiss) November 3, 2024
🤡Yes, this is normal. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have well-known weather modification programs. pic.twitter.com/ZoFQ3Gav92
🏝❄️ Saudi Arabian desert covered in snow
— Nurlan Mededov (@mededov_nurlan) November 3, 2024
This is the first time in history that the desert has been covered in snow, as temperatures there rarely drop to such levels.
A severe hail storm also raged there recently. pic.twitter.com/4wjSaaRMfo
In a remarkable turn of events, Saudi Arabia witnessed spells of heavy rain and snowfall for the first time in history. If reports are to go by, the Al-Jawf region experienced heavy snowfall recently, creating a winter wonderland in a country typically known for its arid climate. pic.twitter.com/k0XoUtVJua
— Koushik Rudra (@koushikrudra279) November 5, 2024
The UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) explained that the recent hailstorms in the region were due to a low-pressure system that originated over the Arabian Sea and reached Oman, bringing moisture-laden air into this typically arid area. This shift in weather patterns has triggered thunderstorms, hail, and rain across both Saudi Arabia and the UAE, challenging the region’s usual dry climate and resulting in extraordinary weather conditions.
In response, Saudi Arabia’s meteorological department has issued severe weather alerts, warning residents to prepare for continued adverse conditions.
Forecasts predict thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rain, hail, and strong winds, which could reduce visibility, disrupt travel, and impact daily activities. Officials have advised residents to exercise caution and take necessary precautions in light of this unusual weather.
