Saudi Gazette report
RAFHA — As December comes to an end and the New Year commences, the atmosphere in the northern region of Saudi Arabia experiences the onset of “Al-Azeerq” (blue cold), one of the coldest periods of the winter season. This phase coincides with the peak of the winter solstice, when night-time reaches its longest duration and daylight hours are at their shortest.

Burgis Al-Fulaij, a member of the Afaq Society for Astronomy, said that the severity of Al-Azeerq cold is the result of several overlapping astronomical and weather factors. Most notably, the short daylight hours and long nights reduce the sun’s ability to warm the Earth’s surface. In addition, northerly winds help dry the air and clear the skies and humidity.

He emphasized that Al-Azeerq is not merely a drop in temperatures, but a complete weather condition representing the most challenging phase of winter. He stressed the importance of raising awareness of the need to take preventive measures, especially for people working outdoors, older people, and children, to ensure their safety during these extremely cold conditions.