Dubai: The effects of global climate change are being seen in various manifestations across the globe.
Just like temperatures are soaring to never-before highs, several places are experiencing extreme rainfall and flooding.
And now, there is snowfall in the desert too!
Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf region recently experienced its first-ever recorded snowfall.
The unprecedented weather event transformed the normally arid and bone-dry desert landscape into a breathtaking scenario covered in white.
Social media was flooded with breathtaking videos and photos of this rare snowfall in desert event.
Take a look at some of the posts shared on X:
🏝❄️ Saudi Arabian desert covered in snow
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
— Nurlan Mededov (@mededov_nurlan) November 3, 2024
Capturing the blend of sand and hail, these photos from the Ha’il-Rafha road, taken on Saturday afternoon in 2024.
📸Hamad Al-Saloom. pic.twitter.com/UaGwKmKVQ3
— Najdean Memoirs (@NajdiMemoirs) November 3, 2024
Snow in Saudi Arabia pic.twitter.com/ZLWHayKztT
— Yisrael official 🇮🇱 🎗 (@YisraelOfficial) November 5, 2024
The Khaleej Times reported that heavy rains and significant hailstorms swept across parts of the Gulf kingdom to pave the way for a chilly spell of snowfall which blanketed the mountainous areas and covered the barren lands too.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) attributed the recent hailstorms to a low-pressure system originating in Arabian Sea and extending to Oman. It brought moisture-laden air into the arid area, resulting in a significant change in weather conditions. Thunderstorms, hailstorms and heavy rains swept across Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
The weather department in Saidi has issued severe warnings for the next few days as well, with residents cautioned to prepare for prolonged adverse conditions.
Thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, hail showers and strong winds have been forecast. It may lead to reduced visibility, travel disruption, and daily life impacts.