The winter season officially began in Saudi Arabia on December 21, 2024, coinciding with the winter solstice at 12:20 PM Mecca time. This astronomical event marks the onset of approximately 89 days of cold weather in the region and features the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
Eng. Majed Abu Zahra from the Jeddah Astronomical Society explained that the winter solstice occurs due to the Earth’s axial tilt of 23.5 degrees and its orbit around the sun. This phenomenon reduces sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to shorter daylight hours. Meanwhile, the Southern Hemisphere experiences longer days as it tilts toward the sun.
Significant temperature drops are anticipated during this period, especially in northern regions such as Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and Hail, where minimum temperatures could range from zero to -4°C. The National Center of Meteorology has issued forecasts of a cold air mass impacting these areas from December 22 to December 24. This cold spell will also bring active winds, likely causing dust storms in regions including Riyadh and the Eastern Province.
As the season progresses, daylight hours will gradually increase after the solstice, culminating in the spring equinox on March 20, 2025.
DISCLAIMER: The images/videos/logos showcased on this page are the property of their respective owners. We provide credit and sources wherever possible. However, If you find that your image/video is displayed on this blog without authorization, please contact us with the relevant details, and we will promptly address your concerns.
