Okaz/Saudi Gazette

JEDDAH — A heat wave began to hit Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah and several other parts of the Kingdom on Sunday with temperatures reaching as high as 47 degrees Celsius in some areas, according to the General Authority of Meteorology and Environment Protection.

The authority did not reveal for how long the high temperature would continue but said there might be rain and thunderstorms in some regions including Jazan, Asir and Baha.

It said temperature in Makkah was expected to reach 47 degrees Celsius while it would be 45 in Jeddah and 42 in Mainah.

The authority said the heat would cover the southern areas of Tabuk province, which might also witness sandstorms reducing horizontal visibility.

It also said sandstorms might cover the Northern Border Province, Hail, Qassim and the southwestern areas of the Kingdom.

The authority said the temperature in Riyadh would reach 41 degrees Celsius and in Dammam 40 degrees.

"The skies will be clear but the humidity will be high in the eastern shores during the day and night," the authority said.

Dr. Khaled Abdul Rahim, a consultant in internal medicine, advised people to take a lot of liquids to avoid dehydration, especially those who work outdoors under the direct sun.

He has said the need for taking water becomes more important when the humidity level high because it increases sweat, which dries up the body fast.