In a breathtaking meteorological event not witnessed for three decades, parts of Saudi Arabia have been transformed into a winter wonderland. A rare snowfall has blanketed desert mountains and plains, creating surreal icy landscapes and surprising residents across the Kingdom.
A Historic Cold Wave Brings Snow
A powerful cold air mass swept across northern Saudi Arabia, bringing with it heavy rain, strong winds, and record-low temperatures. These conditions created the perfect recipe for snow, a phenomenon many Saudis had only heard about or seen in pictures. The temperatures in elevated areas near Tabuk, including Jabal Al Lawz and the Trojena highlands, plunged to around -4°C. This allowed snow to settle at altitudes approaching 2,600 metres, painting the familiar brown terrain in stunning shades of white.
Viral Moments and Winter Playgrounds
The historic moment was swiftly captured and shared across social media platforms. Photos and videos showed mountains completely covered in snow, while dark, dramatic clouds hung over the scene. Residents of cities like Tabuk and Hail embraced the unexpected weather, stepping out to enjoy activities typically associated with far colder climates.
Videos quickly went viral, showing adults skiing down slopes, children building snowmen and playing, and even camels wandering across snow-dusted desert plains. The juxtaposition of iconic desert animals against a white backdrop created a truly magical and surreal spectacle. The snowfall temporarily turned parts of the Kingdom into an impromptu winter sports destination, blending the arid landscape with a fragile layer of ice and snow.
Widespread Impact and Unforgettable Memories
Alongside the snow, the intense cold wave triggered widespread rainfall across several regions, reinforcing the severity of the weather system. For countless residents, the combination of freezing temperatures, snow-capped peaks, and sudden winter fun evoked both excitement and disbelief. This event marks a rare and unforgettable chapter in Saudi Arabia's climate history, demonstrating the powerful and unpredictable forces of nature.
The snowfall in Saudi Arabia serves as a stark reminder of changing global weather patterns and has provided citizens with a unique, shared experience that will be talked about for years to come.
