Saudi Arabia Al-Jawf desert region experiences snow for the 1st time in history

Ironically, a hot topic in the desert.

Natalie Ong

November 08, 2024, 08:00 PM

On Nov. 3, snowfall graced an unexpected place in Saudi Arabia: its desert.

For the first time in history, locals in Saudi Arabia's Al-Jawf region awoke to a blanket of fresh snow atop its brown, arid landscape following "intense rain and hail", reported The Economic Times.

Social media was overwhelmed with excitement as locals in the area posted photos and videos of the peculiar sight.

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Just look at these camels trodding through the snow.

The anomalous occurrence was also attributed to the "low-pressure system brewing in the Arabian Sea" by the UAE's National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), bringing in "moisture-laden air that collided with desert heat", noted CNBC.

As a result, heavy rain, hail, and now, snow are to be expected.

There's an upside to this bizarre phenomenon, though.

With the influx of water, authorities now reckon that the conditions could lead to a "vibrant spring", shared The Economic Times.

Snow rare in Saudi Arabia

While snow in the Middle East may be a rare occurrence, certain areas of Saudi Arabia have experienced snow previously.

Located in the north-western region of Saudi Arabia, Tabouk province sees snow annually.

It’s situated in a mountainous region —some 2600m above sea level— and usually occurs from January to March.

Understandably, it’s a hotspot for tourists within the Gulf region.

Or take Rafha, a city that sees temperatures rising as high as 49 degrees Celsius.

But what’s common is that all three places are located in the north.

Weather advisories issued

The Saudi weather department has since issued warnings for thunderstorms, hail and strong winds in the upcoming days.

With the snow as a sudden and unexpected surprise, locals have been urged to remain cautious amidst changing weather conditions.