- Saudi Arabia experienced snow for the first time in nearly 30 years, covering deserts and mountains
- Iceland recorded an unusual 19.7°C on December 25, nearly 10°C above its July average
- Temperatures in northern Saudi Arabia dropped below freezing, reaching around -4°C at high altitudes
The people of Saudi Arabia woke up to a winter wonderland as snow covered parts of the kingdom for the first time in nearly three decades. Meanwhile, Iceland recorded a surprisingly warm 20 degrees Celsius.
Bakkageroi in Iceland recorded 19.7 degree Celsius in the middle of the night of December 25, nearly 10 degree Celsius above the usual July average.
Climatologists have described the phenomenon as "absolute insanity," calling it one of the most extreme climatic events ever recorded in the country's history.
While Saudi Arabia, known for its vast deserts and scorching summers, experienced a rare snowstorm, Iceland, the Nordic nation famous for its icy landscapes and sub-zero winters, witnessed an opposite extreme.
People shared photos and videos of the unusually warm weather in Iceland on social media.
One person mentioned, "This temperature anomaly over the Northern Hemisphere, especially the USA and Iceland is pretty nuts. Heat records for Christmas and December are being smashed all over."
Another wrote, "It being 7 degrees Celsius hotter in Iceland than the Middle East on Christmas.
While Iceland basks under unseasonal warmth, people in Saudi Arabia are amazed by a rare sight, snow covering the desert and mountains, turning the usually rugged, dry landscape into a white wonderland.
One wrote, "Global warming. Snow has fallen in Saudi Arabia. For many locals, this is a real miracle, because they see it for the first time in their lives."
Another commented, "From snow-covered mountains and winter camps to camels walking through white deserts — this land holds contrasts that feel unreal."
People went outside to enjoy a rare weather pattern.
In northern parts of the kingdom, like Jabal Al Lawz and the Trojena highlands, temperatures dropped below freezing, allowing snow to settle for the first time in nearly 30 years.
In areas near Tabuk, like Jabal Al Lawz and the Trojena highlands, the temperature dropped to around -4°C. At higher altitudes, around 2,600 metres above sea level.
According to a report in Khaleej Times, parts of the Arabian desert witnessed snowfall on December 18 in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The report said a period of low-pressure systems over the Middle East has brought heavy rainfall across the region over the past week.
