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The Al-Jawf desert region of Saudi Arabia is experiencing historic snowfall and hailstorms! (VISUALS)

Snow season in Munnar (IANS)

Representative image

(IANS)

A rare and devastating weather event has struck the Al-Jawf region of Saudi Arabia, where an unexpected snowfall triggered by heavy rain and hail shocked locals and experts alike. For the first time, the normally dry and parched mountains were covered in snow after storms hit the area since last Wednesday.

This dramatic change has left the region's landscape almost unrecognizable and rivers, valleys and streams – normally dry – are now flowing again. However, the rare snowfall was not without consequences. Strong thunderstorms, gusty winds and hailstorms are forecast to continue, potentially causing travel delays, poor visibility and further disruption to daily life.

The cause of the unusual weather is linked to a low pressure system over the Arabian Sea that injected moisture-rich air that collided with the region's extreme desert heat, triggering the chaotic storms. The sight of snow in the desert went viral on social media, but this strange phenomenon has also sparked heated discussions about the growing impacts of climate change.

The Saudi Arabian Meteorological Authority has warned of more severe weather in the coming days and urged residents to prepare for possible disruptions as this unusual weather pattern continues. What began as a rare natural event is now raising concerns about climate changes that could have long-term impacts on the region.

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