The Saudi Arabian desert transformed by snowfall

Key information

• The Al-Jawf region of Saudi Arabia experienced heavy snow and rain for the first time in history.
• This unusual weather event has raised hopes for a vibrant spring bloom, with diverse wild flora, such as lavender and chrysanthemum, thriving in humid conditions.
• Unusual weather conditions affected other parts of Saudi Arabia, including Al-Lawz where higher than usual temperatures delayed snowfall by two months.

Heavy snow and rain have transformed the Al-Jawf region of Saudi Arabia, marking the first time in history that this desert landscape has experienced such a transformation. The national news agency, SPA, reported hailstorms and heavy rains in areas such as Sakaka city and Dumat Al-Jandal governorate, creating lands covered in a white layer. The unusual weather event has raised hopes for a vibrant spring bloom, as Al-Jawf, known for its diverse wild flora, expects an abundance of seasonal plants such as lavender and chrysanthemum, which thrive in humid conditions .

Weather alerts issued

The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued warnings for further thunderstorms, hail, strong winds and potential flooding in the Al-Jawz region. Residents were urged to exercise caution due to reduced visibility. This recent event follows another instance of unusual snowfall earlier this year in the Al-Lawz Mountains, northwest of Tabuk city.

Unusual Weather Patterns

Situated at an altitude of 2,600 meters, Al-Lawz typically experiences snowfall during the Marbaniya season, which runs from December 7 to January 14. However, this year, unusually warm weather delayed snowfall by two months as temperatures remained above zero degrees Celsius. The MCN blamed the higher-than-normal temperatures on atmospheric fluctuations and the absence of southerly winds, which usually bring moist air and cause a significant drop in temperatures. The Marbaniya season was therefore less intense.

Impact on Saudi Arabia

These contrasting weather conditions stand in stark contrast to Saudi Arabia’s typical dry climate, captivating many people across the country with its unusual beauty. The SPA team spent more than 72 hours documenting snowfall at Al-Lawz, which attracted the attention of locals, as snow on these peaks is a much-anticipated sight. With these unexpected weather events and other storms on the horizon, Saudi Arabia is experiencing a unique winter season, which portends a thriving spring in its traditionally arid regions.

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