Riyadh, Dec 22 (V7N) — Saudi Arabia, a country best known for its scorching deserts and sand dunes, has witnessed a rare and remarkable snowfall, with several northern regions covered in a thick layer of ice and snow.

According to the Saudi Meteorological Department, the unusual weather event occurred due to the formation of a deep depression across the Middle East, causing a sharp drop in temperatures across the region.

Snowfall was reported mainly in the northern provinces of Tabuk and Hail, particularly in the mountainous areas bordering Jordan, where temperatures fell below freezing. Several videos showing snow-covered mountains and frozen landscapes have gone viral on social media, drawing widespread attention and amazement.

In addition to snowfall, parts of northern Saudi Arabia have also experienced heavy rainfall, while severe and unstable weather conditions were reported in northern areas of Riyadh.

Local residents described the phenomenon as extremely rare, with some saying they had never witnessed such conditions in decades. The sight of white snow blanketing the desert landscape created scenes reminiscent of a fairy tale.

Meteorologists noted that the Saudi Meteorological Department had earlier issued warnings about cold waves and possible snowfall in elevated regions. Experts confirmed that the heavy rain and snow were the result of a powerful weather system spanning the Middle East, bringing cold air masses into typically warm desert zones.

END/SMA/AJ